Bad breath stinks.
Sure, everyone experiences bad breath from time to time—usually first thing in the morning; but a persistent bad breath (also known as halitosis) can be a serious issue. It’s unpleasant, embarrassing, and can have a negative effect on your self-confidence and social life.
Luckily, getting rid of bad breath is easier than you think. Try these six simple steps to prevent bad breath naturally:
The bacteria that cause bad breath also eat food particles left behind in your mouth after meals. Regular brushing and flossing will help remove these particles and also remove plaque buildup from your teeth and gums. Try to brush your teeth at least two times a day and floss daily.
Brushing and flossing are good for your teeth but don’t overdo it. Brushing too hard can actually wear down the enamel on your teeth which makes them vulnerable to cavities.
Having a dry mouth means there’s not enough saliva to wash away food particles and bacteria. Drinking water throughout the day will keep you hydrated and help fight bad breath. Having a cup of cold water first thing in the morning is a great way to get rid of icky morning breath.
Use a tongue scraper in the morning to remove the coating of bacteria, food debris, and dead cells that form on the surface of the tongue. There are crevices in the tongue that can’t be cleaned effectively with a toothbrush alone. Bacteria love to hide in these spots, and some studies have shown that bacteria on the tongue accounts for 80% of all cases of bad breath.
It’s a well-known fact that foods like onions and garlic lead to bad breath. What most people don’t know is that brushing after you eat these foods doesn’t help get rid of the bad smell. According to the American Dental Association, the foul-smelling substances in these foods enter the bloodstream and actually travel into your lungs. Once that happens, there’s not much brushing your teeth can do to help. The best solution is to avoid these foods before any important personal engagements.
The bacteria in your mouth love sugar, so make sure to stick with sugarless gum to get rid of bad breath. Gum is also more effective than mints because it stimulates saliva, which we’ve already noted helps wash bacteria out of your mouth.
Mouthwash freshens your breath and provides extra protection to teeth and gums by getting rid of bacteria. Select a mouthwash that actively fights the germs that cause bad breath without using harmful chemicals.
Fresh breath can help you make a great first impression, and it’s also a sign of a healthy, happy mouth. Add some or all of the tips above to your oral health routine to get rid of bad breath for good.