Halitosis, also known as bad breath, can significantly impact your life personally and socially. It is the third most popular reason for seeking dental help, so it’s quite common. It can affect your self confidence levels and the way people treat you.
Most cases of bad breath originate in the mouth. Eating certain foods such as garlic or onions can intensify the levels of bad breath throughout the day. It is also more severe in the morning due to the lack of oxygen within the mouth overnight. Some cases of bad breath can be eliminated after brushing or using a special mouth wash, but not all cases will go away that easily.
Chronic halitosis affects almost 25% of the population. This can get in the way of relationships with colleagues, business partners, and loved ones. It can also affect your self-esteem. There are a few treatments you can try to help rid your mouth of bad breath, some that are often overlooked.
Tongue cleaning is very, very important for your general oral health, including bad breath. Bacteria and food can stay on your tongue causing a foul odor. By cleaning your tongue’s surface twice a day, you can eliminate the germs and bacteria which cause this odor. A tongue cleaner or tongue scraper are the best tools to use when doing this. Avoid using your toothbrush because it can spread the bacteria around rather than remove them.
Chewing sugarless gums help in saliva production which eliminates dry mouth, another cause of bad breath. It is also recommended when you can’t brush your teeth after eating. The saliva washes away bacteria and cleanses your mouth.
Using mouthwash before you go to bed is also very important. Gargling can get rid of odors and bacteria in your mouth and the back of your tongue. This will keep your mouth fresh before you go to bed and your chance of morning breath will be reduced.
