As the holiday season brings parties and lavish meals, dentists are warning revelers that some popular festive foods and drinks can significantly worsen bad breath—and not always for obvious reasons.
According to dental experts, many holiday favorites trigger odor not because of their smell, but because of how they alter the mouth’s chemistry. Dr. Jonathan B. Levine, DMD, founder of Smile House and GLO Science, told Daily Mail that cheese and other dairy products are among the biggest culprits.
“Dairy proteins break down into sulfur compounds when oral bacteria digest them, which is one of the main causes of persistent bad breath,” Dr. Levine said.
Sugary holiday desserts are another major contributor. Sugar fuels odor-producing bacteria, particularly when it lingers between teeth or along the gumline. Dr. Levine noted that dried fruits such as dates, figs, and raisins are especially problematic because they are both sticky and high in sugar, allowing bacteria more time to thrive.
Even products meant to freshen breath can backfire. Dr. Marruganti warned that sugary mints may actually worsen odor by drying out the mouth. Reduced saliva limits the mouth’s natural ability to wash away bacteria, increasing the risk of bad breath.
Acidic foods, including tomato-based dishes, can also feed harmful bacteria, while starchy items like bread, stuffing, and crackers quickly break down into sugars and increase oral acidity. This creates an environment where odor-causing bacteria multiply more easily, Dr. Levine explained.
Drinks are another concern. Alcoholic beverages such as wine, champagne, and cocktails significantly reduce saliva flow, allowing bacteria to flourish. Their acidity can further disrupt the oral microbiome. Sugary and fizzy drinks have a similar effect, according to Dr. Marruganti.
To minimize the impact, Dr. Levine recommends alternating alcoholic drinks with water and using an alkalinizing mouthwash to help neutralize acidity and support saliva production. Staying well hydrated is essential, as saliva is the body’s primary defense against bad breath.
“Drinking water throughout the day and breathing through your nose instead of your mouth helps maintain moisture and balance,” he said.
Finally, dentists emphasize the importance of basic oral hygiene, especially during periods of indulgent eating. Along with brushing and flossing, tongue cleaning is crucial.
“A large percentage of odor-causing bacteria live on the tongue,” Dr. Levine said. “Cleaning it regularly can dramatically reduce bad breath, particularly during the holidays.”
