Bad Breath
Bad breath, or halitosis, is something everyone faces throughout the day, but some people deal with more severe cases brought on by issues other than that garlic bread you ate for lunch. Here are a few things to consider when trying to solve the bad breath dilemma.
Is morning breath your main concern? If so, this is perfectly normal. During the night we produce less saliva. This creates a drier atmosphere which allows bacteria to multiply. Simply brushing your teeth and tongue in the morning should clear things up for you.
Your Habits Could be the Problem
Are you a coffee drinker? Smoker? Alcohol drinker? All of these things dry out your mouth. Again, when you have less saliva it means more bacteria = bad breath. The solution doesn’t have to be all or nothing. You can still enjoy your beverages (in moderation), but while drinking them, why not have a glass of water, too? It’s good for you in several ways. It will moderate the caffeine and alcohol consumption, and increase your saliva flow. The smoking habit…. there’s just nothing good about that. Do everything you can to limit or stop that habit. (Vaping dries out your mouth too!)
Bad Breath Diet
What else are you consuming in the day? A diet high in sugar also contributes to bad breath. As bacteria works on breaking down the sugars, the breath turns sour. Eating plenty of vegetables – especially those green ones! – can help with digestion as well as balancing the carbs, proteins, and sugars being consumed. If you are not digesting food well and have gastrointestinal issues, that can also lead to bad breath. Acid reflux, indigestion, constipation and other stomach/bowel disorders can cause sulphurous gases to be released, causing oral odours. Several kinds of medications are known to cause dryness in the mouth too.
Bad breath can also be a sign you have other oral issues. Gum disease, inflammation of the gums, sinus/oral infections, and respiratory problems such as postnasal drip, are all pre-existing conditions that might make you more susceptible to bad breath (https://www.listerine.ca/fresh-breath-tips-and-remedies/reasons-for-bad-breath). Breathing through the mouth instead of your nose will also dry things out and cause your breath to be less than minty fresh.
What is the Solution to Bad Breath?
Brush your teeth and your tongue at least twice daily, with a soft bristled brush. Floss once a day and use a mouthwash to complete your oral care. And don’t forget to see your dentist and hygienist regularly! Chewing sugarless gum can also increase saliva flow and help keep sticky bacteria from staying on your teeth for long periods of time. Drink plenty of water, but watch for drinks that contain any acidity, such as lemon flavoured drinks. While it may help with the breathe, acid wears down your enamel (a whole other topic!). There are a few other products that may help, such as Xylimelts and Remin toothpaste by Oral Science. Both the mints and the toothpaste help with dry mouth. Your dentist or hygienist may have other helpful over-the-counter products to recommend.
Still An Issue?
Is the problem persevering throughout the day no matter what you are eating and drinking? If this is the case, it’s time to do some investigating. Prolonged halitosis can be a sign of bigger problems such as diabetes, liver and kidney issues, as well as certain blood disorders. Don’t ignore it! Make an appointment to see your dentist and doctor if nothing is helping.
