At some point in our lives, we’ve all experienced unpleasant breath, especially when we talk. For example, after eating food with a lot of garlic or onions, or after going several hours without brushing our teeth. Has this happened to you? Want to learn some great tricks to combat bad breath?
Given that bad breath does not always have the same cause and can be caused by several factors, it is necessary to review this discomfort in more detail.
Why does bad breath occur?
Bad breath, also known as halitosis, is a fairly common problem. Anyone can experience unpleasant mouth odor at some point in their life. According to data from a recent study, “it is a common condition in the general population, estimated to affect 25% to 30% of the world’s population.”
Having some bad breath upon waking is common, as saliva has been at rest for a long time, promoting the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms. This is usually resolved by brushing our teeth and drinking water. However, when it persists throughout the day, even after brushing, then we call it halitosis.
Halitosis is related to the decomposition of food debris, saliva, or blood, which produces volatile substances, such as sulfur compounds. Although we usually associate it with poor hygiene, many other causes can lead to this condition. Let’s look at them below:
- Tobacco and alcohol consumption.
- Age: People over 50 are more likely to suffer from halitosis.
- Diseases of the teeth, tongue, or throat, such as gingivitis.
- Stomach problems: Digestive disorders such as dyspepsia and gastroesophageal reflux or hiatal hernia can lead to foul odors in the mouth.
- Chronic diseases, such as diabetes, chronic gastritis, and chronic periodontal disease.
- Drug side effects: Antineoplastic drugs are medications that can cause oral candidiasis, bleeding gums, and oral ulcers.
- Dehydration: when little water is ingested, there is little saliva production, which implies an increase in the number of microorganisms in the mouth and, therefore, the appearance of bad breath.
- Cancer in the respiratory tract or digestive tract.
To alleviate this problem, it’s important to address its root cause, so we recommend consulting a specialist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and rule out any serious condition.
5 ideal tricks for bad breath
If the doctor determines that it is a mild problem, then don’t hesitate to try the following tricks that will end your halitosis.
1. Pay attention to your oral hygiene
Naturally, the first trick to combat bad breath is to pay attention to your oral hygiene, specifically how often you brush your teeth and the products you use. Have you tried using mouthwash regularly? How about switching toothpastes? Do you carry a small toiletry bag with a toothbrush and toothpaste in your purse or bag?
A daily oral hygiene routine is essential. Brush your teeth at least three times a day, including your teeth, gums, and tongue. Floss twice a day to remove food particles and use mouthwash to disinfect your mouth. We recommend using a soft-bristled toothbrush with a tongue scraper. Don’t forget to visit your dentist at least once every six months.
2. Take care of your diet
Certain foods can cause bad breath: red meat, dairy products, spices, and foods high in fat and sugar. This is because aromatic molecules are released during digestion and can be exhaled through the digestive tract and skin.
To avoid this, we recommend including fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins and minerals in your diet and drinking infusions that combat bad breath, such as mint, green, or black tea.
3. Avoid certain substances
Another trick to combat bad breath is to avoid consuming certain substances, such as coffee, alcohol, and tobacco, as well as foods with strong flavors or smells, like onions and garlic, since these greatly intensify halitosis. Furthermore, their odor is also exuded through sweat.
4. Take care of your digestive system
Poor digestion and conditions like gastritis, constipation, or colitis can cause bad breath. Increasing your fiber intake and drinking plenty of water will promote good digestion.
5. Take advantage of some herbs
Many aromatic plants possess antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic properties. Therefore, they are excellent for eliminating the agents that cause this condition. Use them in your meals, in infusions, and in mouthwashes.
- Clove tea.
- Rosemary, parsley, basil, and thyme help eliminate bad breath.
- Gargling with water and lemon disinfects and refreshes the throat.
- Fennel helps to keep the tongue and gums healthy.
- The essential oils in sage help to disinfect the oral cavity.