What Do I Do to Get Rid of Bad Breath?

Bad breath (halitosis) is an embarrassing daily problem many face daily. From halitosis caused by underlying medical conditions to those caused by poor dental hygiene, there are several ways to get rid of bad breath. Read on to learn more about the causes of bad breath and some proven methods for freshening up your mouth for good.

Causes of Bad Breath

Bad breath is usually caused by bacteria in the mouth, which break down food particles and release odorous sulfur compounds. While most people get bad breath from time to time, some individuals may have chronic halitosis that requires more extensive treatment.

1: Poor Oral Hygiene

One of the most common causes of bad breath is poor oral hygiene. When you don’t brush and floss regularly, food particles get stuck between your teeth and in other hard-to-reach places in your mouth, leading to bacterial growth that produces odor-causing sulfur compounds.

2: Dry Mouth

A dry mouth (xerostomia) is another common cause of bad breath. When saliva production slows, bacteria aren’t washed away as easily, and this can lead to a buildup of odorous compounds. A dry mouth can be a side effect of medications or be caused by certain medical conditions such as Sjogren’s Syndrome.

3: Diet

What you eat can also have an impact on your breath. Eating garlic and onions, for example, will cause your breath to smell bad for several hours after the fact. Drinking alcohol or smoking cigarettes can also contribute to bad breath.

Treatments for Bad Breath

There are several ways to get rid of bad breath, ranging from lifestyle changes to over-the-counter products and professional dental treatments. Here are some treatments that may help get rid of your bad breath.

1: Oral Hygiene

The first line of defense against bad breath is good oral hygiene. Brushing your teeth for two minutes twice a day, flossing once a day, and using an antimicrobial mouthwash will get rid of the bacteria that can cause odor-causing sulfur compounds. Make sure you get into all the hard-to-reach places in your mouth to get rid of as much bacteria as possible.

2: Hydration

Staying hydrated is also important for getting rid of bad breath. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your mouth moist and flush away any food particles or bacteria that may be stuck in between teeth or trapped in other parts of your mouth.

3: Diet

Making changes to your diet can help get rid of bad breath. Avoid foods that are particularly stinky, such as garlic and onions. Cut back on sugary and acidic foods that can weaken your tooth enamel, which can lead to cavities and more bacteria in the mouth.

3: Over-the-Counter Products

Many over-the-counter products can help get rid of bad breath, including tongue scrapers and breath freshening sprays and gums. These products can effectively eliminate odor-causing bacteria but should not be used as a substitute for good oral hygiene practices.

Conclusion

Bad breath can be embarrassing and uncomfortable, but it doesn’t have to be something you live with forever. By understanding the causes of bad breath and following simple treatments such as good oral hygiene and lifestyle changes, you can get rid of bad breath for good.

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