5 Solutions for Bad Breath (Halitosis)

5 Solutions for Bad Breath (Halitosis)

We all get bad breath (halitosis) from time to time, though some of us find it a more serious problem than others. Sometimes, it’s a result of eating foods with strong odors or a large amount of proteins.

Bad breath can caused by bacteria within gums, on the tongue, and between teeth, which release smelly gases. The problem is exacerbated by bad oral hygiene  because food particles remain in your mouth, fostering the growth of these bacteria.

1. Brush After Meals

The best way to get rid of chronic bad breath is to brush teeth at least twice daily. Learn the right way to brush, and make sure to get to all the surfaces of your teeth and gums. If you can do it after meals, that’s recommended. Consider using a toothpaste with baking soda to reduce the level of acidity in your mouth, as this can make conditions worse for growing bacteria.

2. Floss Your Teeth

Get in between your teeth with floss to dislodge particles that brushing can miss. If those food particles remain in your mouth, bacteria will start to form and cause bad breath. Flossing should be done daily.

3. Use The Right Mouthwash

Mouthwash can indeed kill bad breath-causing bacteria, but be careful what you buy. A rinse with a high-alcohol content may irritate your oral tissue and make the problem worse. Look for ingredients like menthol, eucalyptus or thymol. In a pinch, rinsing with black or green tea may suppress bacterial growth.

4. Chew Sugarless Gum, Or Have A Snack

Chewing gum can help dislodge food particles. It can also stimulate your saliva, which helps to wash away bacteria. Having a healthy, crunchy snack does the same. Snacking with granola bars, trail mix, protein shakes, vegetables, and other healthy foods may also help reduce acid build-up in the stomach, which can let off foul gases that intensify the problem. Parsley and similar plant-based greens contains chlorophyll, which neutralizes bad breath, so chew that if it’s handy.

5. Practice Avoidance

Drink a lot of water to help wash away food particles and bacteria. Stay away from stinky foods, like garlic and coffee. Don’t smoke.

Please note that if you have continued problems with bad breath, this could be a symptom of a more serious condition, such as an infection, gastroesophageal reflux disease, thrush, diabetes, or liver and kidney conditions. See your dentist regularly, and remember that regular, consistent oral hygiene is your best solution for healthy, sweet-smelling gums and teeth.