Bad breath is everyone’s worst fear. Although it’s a common issue, it’s also an easy fix. This is why grocery stores overflow with gum, mints, toothpaste, and mouthwash products that can help rid you of bad breath. So let’s dive into why we deal with the complications of bad breath and how it can be fixed.
Causes of Bad Breath
Bad breath is based on the food you consume, proper hygiene, medications, etc. The breakdown of food, medicine, and even tobacco products can leave particles stuck in your teeth and develop an unpleasant odor. For example, consuming garlic, onions, or intense spices can leave a lingering smell and taste in your mouth. Gum diseases may develop if you smoke, which is another cause of bad breath.
Keeping up with a proper hygiene routine is crucial. For example, flossing daily and brushing your teeth will eliminate leftover food particles that can be trapped in your mouth. If not brushed away, plaque can build up and irritate your gums and eventually form plaque-filled pockets between your teeth and gums. Your tongue also can trap bacteria that produce odors.
Medical issues and medication often relate to problems with bad breath. Dry mouth can be standard for many. When a lack of saliva is produced, particles can build up and release an odor. We rely on our saliva to cleanse our mouth, but dry mouth happens to everyone, especially when sleeping which leads to “morning breath.” A problem with your salivary glands and some diseases can cause chronic dry mouth. Also, an infection or inflammation in the nasal cavity or sinus cavities can lead to a foul odor from the mouth. Several diseases, including cancer and certain metabolic disorders, can cause bad breath due to the presence of chemicals produced by these illnesses.
How to Get Rid of Bad Breath
Brushing and flossing your teeth daily is the best way to improve your breath. Using mouthwash before going to bed can also improve your oral hygiene. These habits keep your mouth clean and free from harmful bacteria. Adjusting your diet and avoiding certain foods can also reduce the issue. However, sometimes bad breath can be hard to avoid. Your local grocery stores also carry gum, mints, and travel-size mouthwash for emergencies.
Recommended Mouthwashes
Certain mouthwashes can kill the germs that cause bad breath and reduce plaque. Unfortunately, there are so many options to choose from, and sometimes it can be overwhelming. Here are a few types of mouthwash that are proven to improve your breath health.
Listerine Total Care Alcohol-Free Anticavity Fluoride Mouthwash
Listerine is known for a great overall mouthwash as it pinpoints all necessary needs to complete a staple to keep your breath at its freshest. The zero-alcohol formula kills and deep cleans harmful breath germs throughout your mouth. This mouthwash is cost-effective and can be found at almost any local grocery store. Eucalyptol, menthol, and thymol are included on the hygienic side to have a tremendous antiseptic effect. Not only are you getting long-lasting, minty breath, but this Listerine wash also helps prevent cavities and restores enamel, so your teeth are at their healthiest!
Crest Pro-Health Mouthwash
Crest is an excellent option for the best results in teeth health. Unfortunately, this mouthwash does not include fluoride. However, there is no actual alcohol content in the product, alleviating some of the dry mouth side effects that result in bad breath propagation.
Fresh Breath Oral Rinse – Mild Mint
TheraBreath Fresh Breath Oral Rinse has an alcohol-free formula that doesn’t burn or irritate and is formulated with a Mild Mint Flavor to be gentle on sensitive mouths. It contains no artificial flavors or colors and is certified kosher, vegan, and gluten-free. It is clinically proven to give you fresh breath for over twelve hours when used as directed. This wash is ADA-approved.
It’s essential to keep up with proper oral hygiene and good habits. Sometimes visiting a professional can help you get on the right path to fresh breath. Contact Nate Lewis DDS for more information on dental appointments at (801) 572-3211 or click here.