Ways to Fight Bad Breath

Added: (Thu Jul 02 2009)

Pressbox (Press Release) - It can be pretty embarrassing to have bad breath or halitosis. Unfortunately, some people are not even aware they have this problem. According to San Diego cosmetic dentists, this dental problem is the third most frequent reason for seeking dental aid. Everyone has had bad breath at least once in their life because some foods cause temporary bad breath which could be removed by toothbrushing or rinsing with a mouthwash. However, an expert of San Diego cosmetic dentistry said that around 25% of the population suffer from chronic bad breath.


According to a San Diego cosmetic dentists, most cases of bad breath due bacteria in the mouth and tongue. Sometimes, bacteria in the the nose, tonsils, and stomach can also cause bad breath. Below are some tips to help you fight bad breath away.

* Brush your teeth three times a day. It is important to brush your teeth after every meal to remove the food particles that can accumulate inside your mouth. These food particles are broken down by bacteria that cause bad breath.
* Gargling with a mouthwash. Even if it is just with water, gargling can greatly help in keeping bad breath away.
* Flossing. Maintaining proper oral hygiene, which includes flossing, is very important in fighting bad breath.
* Clean the tongue surface. Use a tongue cleaner or a tongue brush/scraper to gently clean your tongue.
* Drink plenty of water. Saliva has a cleansing and diluting effect on bacteria and bacteria waste products which causes bad breath so it is important to keep your mouth hydrated by drinking a lot of water.
* Visit a dentist. It is important to get help from a dentist if your bad breath is caused by gum or periodontal disease.
* Use only sugar-free mints or gum. Sugar feeds the bacteria that cause bad breath.
* Use probiotics. This would help restore and maintain your intestinal flora.
* Check for underlying medical conditions. Bad breath may also be caused by tonsillitis, diabetes, intestinal disease, liver disorder, or chronic sinusitis.
* Quit smoking. Smoking causes bad breath.
* Stay away from what causes bad breath. Although bad breath caused by specific food or drink is temporary, it is important to stay away from them during situations when you definitely don’t want bad breath. Some of these are garlic, onion, curry spices, and alcohol.