Bad breath, which experts call halitosis, is a problem that we face more often than we might like to admit. Perhaps you have already detected it in yourself, when you were surprised by an unpleasant smell while brushing your teeth in the morning, or you found yourself in a sticky situation when someone got too close to you during a conversation.
Although chewing gum and refreshing candies are a quick fix, the long-term solution is a bit more complicated. Let us in on a secret: behind the scenes bad breath there's more to it than just the last bite of garlic bread.
What causes bad breath?
Bad breath can be caused by many factors that many people overlook. They are usually the main culprit bacteria, which accumulate in the mouth, especially on the tongue and between the teeth. These bacteria feed on food scraps and release volatile sulfur compounds, causing that unpleasant odor we are so desperate to mask.
But beware, nutrition is only the tip of the iceberg. Garlic and onions are most often on the dock, but an unpleasant smell can also come from digestive system. When we digest certain foods, such as garlic, molecules of aromatic compounds travel through the bloodstream and are released through the lungs, so the smell does not go away even if you brush your teeth five times.
In addition to diet, there is also the issue of oral hygiene. If you don't brush your teeth regularly, food remains in your mouth, creating a perfect breeding ground for bacteria. Also, the tongue should not be neglected, which is often the main culprit of bad breath. Did you know that the tongue can be inhabited by billions of bacteria?
Dry mouth or xerostomia is another common factor. Saliva is a natural cleaner of the oral cavity, so the lack of saliva allows bacteria to reproduce unhindered. Dry mouth can be caused by dehydration, taking certain medications, or even sleeping with your mouth open.
And let's not forget vices such as smoking and drinking alcohol. Both accelerate the drying of the oral cavity and thus the growth of bacteria, and tobacco products themselves leave an unpleasant odor.
Who is most prone to bad breath?
When we talk about bad breath, you probably think of it first smokers or people who overindulge in highly spicy foods. But the truth is that any one of us can be prone to this problem - except that for some groups the risk is slightly higher.
The smoking population certainly leads on this scale. Smoking not only dries out the mouth, it also promotes the formation of plaque and gum disease, all of which increase the chances of bad breath. But it is not only smokers who are at risk. People naturally produce less saliva as they age, so the elderly are more likely to struggle with bad breath.
People with digestive problems. Acid reflux, for example, causes stomach contents to back up into the esophagus, which not only affects bad taste, but also bad breath. People with diabetes, liver and kidney diseases, however, often develop a specific odor that is difficult to mask.
How to get rid of bad breath?
The good news is that bad breath is a problem that can be effectively managed with a few basic changes in daily habits. The first step is, of course, regular and thorough oral hygiene. Brush your teeth at least twice a day, and even better after every meal, and don't forget to floss. Cleaning the tongue is also essential - the tongue is a breeding ground for bacteria that can cause an unpleasant odor.
If you often have dry mouth, take care of sufficient fluid intake and avoid excessive drinking of coffee and alcohol, which dry out the oral cavity. Sugar-free gum can also stimulate saliva production and help reduce bad breath.
Of course, it is also important to visit the dentist regularly. Possible tartar or gum disease is a common source of bad breath, so make sure your teeth and gums are healthy.
Although refreshing candies and mouthwashes are a great quick fix, the long-term solution lies in changing your lifestyle. If you eat a lot of bad breath-causing foods like garlic and onions, try cutting back on them, or chew on fresh herbs like mint or parsley after a meal. These naturally freshen the breath and have an antibacterial effect.
Natural remedies for bad breath
For those who swear by natural solutions, there are many ways to get rid of bad breath without resorting to chemical mouthwashes. Tea tree oil for example, it has strong antibacterial properties, so you can add a drop to toothpaste or mouthwash. Clove oil is also a natural antiseptic that helps fight bacteria and can be used as a natural mouthwash.
Another interesting solution is apple cider vinegar, which helps regulate acidity in the mouth and prevents acid reflux. Simply dilute it with water and drink before meals.
Although bad breath can be an unpleasant and sometimes embarrassing problem, it is not insurmountable. With proper care of the oral cavity, taking care of sufficient fluid intake and regular visits to the dentist, you can quickly find out what is causing it and get rid of it effectively. The next time you're out in company, you'll be able to breathe confidently – without fear of anyone rolling their eyes!
