Banish the breath mints and chewing gum

Neither of these commercial products are particularly helpful as they only mask the problem and in fact could cause tooth decay. Try some of our alternative recommendations:
Remember the trick the Greeks used? Anise seed is readily available and chewing on a few of them work just as effectively today as they did several thousand years ago. Fennel, cinnamon and cloves also work well. Try popping a few into your mouth after meals to fight bad breath.
There are many other natural replacements for commercial mouthwash. Try adding a bit of baking soda to your toothpaste. After all, not only is it used in cooking and the laundry, we also use baking soda to absorb odor in the refrigerator. It will work well to help eliminate bad breath.
Did you ever wonder why parsley and mint are often used as a garnish when dining out? Just like the Greeks, remember the Romans. Chewing on parsley helps fight bad breath.
The reason is the high content of chlorophyll. Chlorophyll very quickly changes carbon dioxide into oxygen in the body. This prepares the digestive tract to prevent gases and toxins from backing up and by lubricating the tract and various valves.
Boil a mixture of myrrh resin, sage leaves and lavender flowers in a small amount of water. Gargle three times a day as a bad breath remedy.
Aloe vera will cleanse the colon and prevent toxins that could possibly back up in the digestive tract.

De-Mystifying the Mouthwash Myth

As we mentioned earlier, all people have bad breath on occasion. When they do, most people immediately reach for the mouthwash. Not only is this ineffective but this action can also exacerbate the condition. Why is this so?

Mouthwash contains flavoring and dyes but most importantly the primary component is alcohol! They claim to kill bacteria, which is true in most cases. However, the bacteria is quick to return with an exponential affect because the alcoholic content causes dry mouth which is the leading cause of bad breath. It creates a very ineffectual cycle of repetition.

Commercial mouthwash products also contain other harsh chemicals. Studies have shown that excessive amounts of mouthwash irritate the gums, tongue, palate and mucous membranes in the mouth. If the user is a smoker AND consumes alcohol, heavy use of mouthwash can even cause certain cancers. It would be prudent to look at some of the other methods to deal with bad breath and stay away from the mouthwash.

If you would like to freshen your breath try preparing your own breath freshening mouthwash. A rinse consisting of a few drops of peppermint oil in a glass of water will do the trick nicely just don’t count on it to kill bacteria. Also just use it as a rinse and do not swallow.
There are other essential oils that work as well. Try tea tree, myrrh, spearmint, and ginger are also effective.

Rinsing your mouth with salt water is a great home remedy for a sore throat. It is also good for eliminating bad breath. You might also try rinsing with lemon or lime water as well. Both are equally effective and may taste a bit more pleasant than salt water.

Try drinking a small amount of apple cider vinegar in a glass of water at least once a day.

Bad Breath In Children

Bad Breath In Children

All of the causes and symptoms of bad breath that we have discussed also apply to children. However, there are other concerns. Bad breath is very common among children. The most predominant cause of bad breath in children is breathing through the mouth.

Mouth breathing causes the mouth to dry out. A dry mouth provides a perfect environment for the bacteria that causes bad breath to grow.

Dry mouth is the main cause of bad breath in both children and adults. Children tend to breath through their mouth more often than adults and appear to have more instances of colds, allergies, sinus infections and other nose and ear problems.

A child who sucks their thumb or blanket can also dry out the mouth. Older children who smoke or use alcohol also set themselves up for dry mouth.

Nasal blockage is also a frequent cause of bad breath in toddlers. Toddlers will often poke items up their noses and then forget they are there. If you observe bad breath and/or a smelly discharge from one nostril you need to contact your pediatrician for immediate treatment.

Bad Breath In Children

Bad Breath And Serious Health Issues

Bad Breath And Serious Health Issues

Certain breath odors may be symptomatic of health issues which require immediate attention.

Odd odors.

For instance if the odor smells "fruitlike" this may indicate that your body is trying to expell acetone. This conditions occurs because of a process called ketoacidosis.

Ketoacidosis happens when insulin is not present in the body. If insulin is not present, body fat is substituted for the insulin, and when metabolized, ketones invade the bloodstream. This condition can result in a diabetic coma and should be considered life-threatening.

If you have ever had a tube inserted in your stomach through your mouth or nose, you may have experienced "fecal odor" in your breath. This can also occur when there is a bowel obstruction or prolonged period of vomiting. An ammonia or fishlike odor can be associated with chronic kidney failure also known as chronic renal failure.

Drug abuse.

This is a sad footnote to our culture today. In years past this subject wouldn’t even be considered in a guide such as this. A study conducted in 2003 revealed that 12.3 million Americans 12 years old and over tried methamphetamine at least once. This number is staggering when you consider that represents 5.2% of our population.

Not only are the health risks tremendous but the damage to the teeth is often irreversible. Dentists have reported that the teeth of methamphetamine users are described as rotting, black, stained and literally falling apart and crumbling. The drug is highly acidic and reduces the production of saliva. Users tend to grind their teeth and crave sugar in any form. The drug also remains in the system for up to 12 hours prolonging the exposure during a period when the user probably will not even consider brushing or flossing.Removal of the teeth is often the only course of action.

Eating disorders.

We have mentioned that vomiting is a known cause of bad breath. Hand in hand with vomiting are potentially dangerous disorders such as bulimia and anorexia.

Bulimia involves the practice of repeated binge eating followed up by self-induced vomiting called “purging” and is normally done secretly.

The reasons for engaging in this practice are different for each participant. However, it is generally accepted by the medical community that those who suffer from bulimia eat for “comfort.”

They use food as a therapy and consume large amounts to induce inner feeling of well being. It appears to temporarily drive away feelings of anger, loss, sadness and other negative, human conditions.

Each time they binge, they need to purge so they can recapture the emotional band-aids they get while binging. It is an extremely dangerous practice.

The purging process is also accomplished by fasting, taking diet pills or using diuretics. Not only does the practice rapidly deplete the body of natural resources, it also creates a dry mouth situation which causes bad breath. If you know of someone who you suspect may be on a damaging “binge eating” program watch for the signs of bad breath as well. If you suspect they may be engaged in this behavior, intervention may be in order.

Anorexia is also extremely harmful. While it may manifest itself in some of the same ways as bulimia, it is different in that the victim has a fear of weight gain and even the slightest ounce of body fat just can’t be tolerated. Rather than binging and purging, purging is the tool of preference for people who suffer from anorexia.

Body piercing.

Our purpose of discussion that relates to body piercing is obviously directed toward oral piercing. It is not our intent to make any judgment of the practice, merely to point out some of the risks involved as well as bad breath resulting from the practice.

The most obvious risk factor is infection which can occur when there is a lesion on any part of the body. However, as we know that the mouth is the perfect environment for bacteria to grow, whether it is “good” bacteria or “bad” bacteria.

You might think that the risk is greater at the time of piercing and that would be correct. However, continual handling of the jewelry after placement greatly increases the odds of infection down the road. Oral piercing may also put you at risk for blood contamination and increase the possibility of hepatitis B, C, D and G.

Damage to the blood vessels in the tongue or cheek can induce prolonged bleeding and in some cases nerve damage can occur.

Just having the jewelry in the mouth can damage the soft tissue around the teeth causing the gums to recede.

Constant clicking of the jewelry against natural and/or restored teeth can cause the enamel or veneers to crack or chip.

Oral jewelry can also create more saliva than is necessary. Some people have reported problems with speech and a pronounced reduction in the ability to pronounce words properly. Others say that their ability to chew was impaired.

Another worse case scenario is the risk of having the jewelry dislodge causing a dangerous choking situation or even swallowing the jewelry and having it end up in the digestive tract which is dangerous itself.

Finally, there is no doubt that having a foreign body in your mouth is going to create bad breath. Keeping the area around the piercing 100% clean 100% of the time is impossible. It only takes a few tiny particles lodged in or around the entrance and exit of the jewelry stud to create bad breath. And, that’s even before you add in the factors discussed above.
So, if you do choose to engage in the practice prepare yourself for some pretty hefty maintenance and the possibility of infection or even worse circumstances.

These examples are not the norm, of course, but if you do experience any of them, it would be prudent to contact a physician especially if they replace previously normal breath odor.

Bad Breath And Serious Health Issues

What Are The Symptoms Of Bad Breath?

What Are The Symptoms Of Bad Breath?

This may sound like a "no brainer" because you may think that bad breath is obvious to the person who has bad breath. That is not necessarily the case.

You may have cupped your hands and blown into them to try and determine if your breath smells, but that does not work because your body will naturally acclimatize to its own odor. This is necessary so that the sensory system will recognize odors that are external to the body.

If this is the case, then you need to look at external symptoms:

Do you experience nasal drip?

Do you have allergies?

Do you have a chronic dry mouth?

Do you experience a sour taste in your mouth?

Do you have a coating on your tongue?

Do your friends offer you gum or breath mints?

Do strangers turn their heads away when you speak?

These may sound very basic questions but if you answered yes to any of them there is a good probability that you have a problem with bad breath. If you answered any of them with "I don't know," you need to become pro-active and observe if any of the conditions apply to your situation.

What Are The Symptoms Of Bad Breath?

Periodontal disease and Bad Breath

Periodontal disease and Bad Breath

It’s hard to believe that in a 2002 poll of 1,000 Americans over the age of 35, it was determined that 60% of adults polled knew little or nothing about gum disease! A tragedy when you consider that gum disease is the leading factor in tooth loss, even healthy teeth.

Your teeth can appear to be healthy and disease free, when under the surface gum disease can stalwartly march on creating a condition that will ultimately lead to serious tooth loss. Bad breath is a “red flag” to help determine if this problem is prevalent in your mouth.

Healthy gum tissue forms a shallow groove at the point where the tooth meets the gum line. This disease occurs when the anaerobic, sulfur producing bacteria we discussed earlier, become trapped beneath the gum line.

This is a perfect breeding ground for the bacteria and they will settle in and take residence.
Not recognizing and dealing with the problem will result in serious dental problems up to and including loss of teeth and even underlying bone disease.

If you are diagnosed with serious periodontal disease, work to save your teeth needs to begin as soon as possible.

The first step that your dentist will take is probably what is called “scaling and root planing.” This is a non-surgical procedure to remove the deposits of plaque on the surface of the tooth including the root. Since periodontal disease rarely occurs in just one tooth, this will probably need to be done to all your teeth.

The dentist will scrap the surfaces of the tooth below the gum line to remove all traces of plaque clear down to the bottom of the pocket. He will then smooth the surface of the root to encourage healthy gum tissue to heal. This process also discourages plaque from reforming.
Depending on how involved your case might be, the dentist may prescribe medication to assist in healing or control pain and potential infection.

More diagnostics are required before a prognosis of your case of periodontal disease can be given. Each deposit of plaque creates its own “pocket” and the dentist needs to measure the depth of the pockets that were scaled during your first visit.

Often, the scaling procedure works well to eliminate the problem and you are free from further treatment other than normal examinations. At this point you would be well served by employing a daily regimen of preventative maintenance to insure the disease does not return.
However, if the diseased pockets are deep and extending into actual bone, you may need to have surgery in order to keep the teeth. If this is the case, your dentist will refer you to a periodontist, a doctor who specializes in periodontal disease.

The periodontist will use a surgical process to aggressively penetrate the diseased areas and ferret out the plaque and bacteria. The pockets where plaque resides must be sealed off so the environment does not invite a return of the disease.

In some cases bone surgery or bone grafts may be necessary to rebuild bone that was destroyed by the periodontal disease. If there was substantial tissue damage grafts may need to be used to replace the soft tissue. This procedure involves removing gum tissue from your palate to cover the areas where severe gingivitis has penetrated too far into the gum line.

Periodontal disease and Bad Breath

What Actually Causes Bad Breath?

What Actually Causes Bad Breath?

Abscessed tooth.

Infection of the tissue surrounding a tooth that usually fills with pus which has a very smelly odor.

Alcoholism.

Immoderate use of alcohol causes decreased production of saliva causing dryness of the mouth. Dry mouth is a leading cause of bad breath.

Atrophic rhinitis.

This is an inflammation of the nasal mucous membrane usually a result of nasal drip due to colds or sinusitis.

Cancers.

Cancers such as esophageal, pharyngeal, oral tumors, leukemia, pulmonary and stomach cancer all present severe bad breath due to the decay that is taking place. Additionally, the medical treatments for these cancers can exacerbate the bad breath.

Oral Candida.

This is a fungal infection of the mouth cavity. Also known as thrush, it is fairly common among infants, diabetics, chemotherapy patients and people with HIV or AIDS.

Cavities.

These holes in the outer two layers of a tooth contain decay which in turn produces bad breath.

Dentures.

Dentures are prosthetic replacements for natural teeth and are just as susceptible to the build up of plaque which causes bad breath. Denture wearers also have a tendency toward dry mouth which also increases the risk of bad breath.

Diabetes.

People who have diabetes may also have bad breath. This occurs because of poor control of blood sugar, the problem with most diabetics. Gum disease is a problem for diabetics. And, diabetes is a problem for people with gum disease.

It can be difficult to determine which comes first, the diabetes or the gum disease, but the underlying problem is clear. High blood sugar contributes to gum disease. Diabetics have trouble controlling the high blood sugar. Gum disease is a leading cause of bad breath, hence the correlation.

The American Dental Association reports that people with type 1 diabetes 5 are at greater risk for gingivitis.

Drugs.

Certain drugs such as antihistamines, antidepressants, blood pressure meds, steroids, cancer therapy drugs, diuretics and oral contraceptives are all known to increase the propensity for bad breath as well as an increased risk for gum disease.

Dry mouth.

Sounds like such an innocuous little phrase, doesn’t it? Thought to be a leading cause of bad breath, dry mouth occurs when saliva production is reduced and carries its own nasty little package of problems.

The medical term for dry mouth is “xerostomia” (pronounced ZEER-oh-STOH-mee-ah). Saliva performs vital work in your body. It aids in digestion by using the enzymes to help break up different foods and also makes it easier to talk.

You may not realize that it can also help to prevent tooth decay by rinsing away food particles from between the teeth as well as the gums. Saliva also helps you taste the food you eat and makes it easier for you to swallow that food. It is also known for neutralizing any damaging acids.

It is believed to be caused primarily by certain medications which we listed in the previous paragraph. The symptoms of dry mouth can include:

-Dry, rough tongue

-Poor sense of taste

-Burning sensation in your mouth

-Increased plaque

-Reduced saliva production

Alzheimer’s disease, AIDS and stroke are also attributed to causing dry mouth as well as pregnancy and/or hormonal changes due to menopause.

Increasing fluid intake can help to re-hydrate the mouth. It’s important to keep it moist so you don’t lose all the benefits provided by saliva production.

Food or beverages.

A very broad topic. I will try to deal with this in upcoming posts.

Foreign body in the nose.

Do you have small children? This is a situation that requires immediate treatment to prevent serious consequences.

Gum disease/Gingivitus.

This is inflammation of soft tissue surrounding the teeth. This condition is much more serious than a single abscess. Gingivitis is the precursor to periodontitis which is the final step of gum disease that can ultimately lead to toot loss. This will be discussed in depth a bit further on.

Hepatic encephalopathy.

This is a rare but possible cause as a result of liver disease.

Impacted tooth.

An impacted tooth is one that rebelliously will not erupt into its proper position and most often results in infection, which we know is another cause of bad breath.

Periodontal disease.

A very broad topic. I will try to deal with this in upcoming posts.


What Actually Causes Bad Breath?

Have You Got It?

Only a mother loves you enough and has just the right tone to let you know that you have it.Even your best friend won't tell you.

A typical scenario... You’re at a party and there’s this really hot girl across the room. You exchange a glance. You both smile.

You begin to wind your way through the crowd all the while maintaining eye contact. The attraction is definitely there, right?

You finally make it across the dance floor and approach her with a smile. Suddenly, there’s a shift in her body language. She tightens up, the smile disappears and before you can finish your introduction, she mumbles something and turns away.

Now, what in the heck happened in the ten seconds it took you to cross the room?

Only your mother will tell you. . .you have BAD BREATH!

Bad breath is the side effect of the action taken by certain bacteria that live in the mouth, the tongue and the tonsils. The fact is that we all have these bacteria in our mouth. These bacteria pretty much remain dormant until some action in their environment causes them to change.

Because they are anaerobic and sulfur producing, when they react to these changes they produce chemicals compounds. Some of these compounds smell and taste terrible like hydrogen sulfide which smells like rotten eggs and other compounds.

Bad Breath- Did You Know?

Did you know that dental hygiene was practiced as far back as ancient Greece and Rome. The Greeks used to chew on anise seeds. Anise tastes like licorice. The Romans discovered that chewing on parsley would disguise the smell of alcohol on their breath. They were probably unaware that parsley is high in chlorophyll which turns carbon dioxide into oxygen making it a natural as one of the first breath fresheners.

Everyone has an occasional problem with bad breath which is why Americans spend more than $200 million a year on products to freshen the breath. Pills, mouthwash, breath mints, toothpaste and more comprise this industry.

Tonsils Causing Bad Breath

Tonsils Causing Bad Breath

Bad breath, also known medically as halitosis, is a condition that most people suffer from at one time or another. It is caused by a number of factors, but most are associated to the increase of bacteria present in the mouth that produces the so-called “volatile sulfur compounds” where the stinky smell comes from.

One of the most commonly known causes of bad breath is tonsil stones. This is basically where the idea on “tonsils causing bad breath” originates. Well, according to some studies, bad breath is produced when tonsils hold a mass of bacteria on its place. The tonsil stones, also known as tonsilloliths, are characterized by nasty yellowish and whitish colored lumps on the tonsils that smell like hell. These tonsils causing bad breath are caused by the buildup of the bacteria capable of producing volatile sulfur compounds as well as debris that becomes trapped and lodged in the tonsils. The debris, as what most medical studies have shown, may include mucus that drips and purifies in the back of your throat due to post nasal drip. This mucus that forms out of post nasal drip is known as tonsil crypts.

The tonsils causing bad breath may appear small on the surface of your tonsils. They are yellowish and whitish in color and may not be removed by any simple teeth and mouth cleaner. These tonsils causing bad breath may also appear to be extremely inflamed and typically form pockets of pus in the tonsillar crypts. It is this condition that causes an extreme soar throat that is often accompanied by vomiting and fever.

What is more important to know about tonsils causing bad breath is that when the formed pockets of pus are not treated as soon as possible, chances are bad breath may become chronic. Worst of all, the tonsils causing bad breath may create certain infection on the tonsils itself that is often followed by a rheumatic fever. This condition, according to some medical studies, can damage the heart. Because of this, people who are affected by chronic tonsils causing breath are strongly advised to see a doctor and obtain a diagnosis. An antibiotic may be given to you in case of severe tonsil infection.

Tonsils causing bad breath

Natural Gum Disease Remedies

Gum disease otherwise known as periodontal disease is not a pleasurable experience. Although some specific forms of gum diseases are not painful and do not inhibit any signs or symptoms until the disease is on its advanced phase. It is important to avoid gum disease, because not only does the disease ruin the beautiful smile on your face, it also can bring complications like heart disease.
Gum disease is the inflammation and infection of the gums, the connecting fiber that supports and surrounds the teeth, and the bone of the teeth. Gum disease is one of the leading causes of loss of tooth among adults over 30. Gum disease is commonly caused by bacterial plaque. Bacterial plaque is a sticky, colorless substance that forms on the teeth. If the bacterial plaque on the teeth is not removed by way of brushing or flossing the teeth, it will accumulate and hardens into substance called calculus or more known as tartar.

The good news is that, if the gum disease is detected on its early stage, it can be treated and reversed. There are lots and lots of natural gum disease remedies readily available. Using natural gum disease remedies will not only give fast healing process, it will also provide better oral health care. Vitamin C is one of the good natural gum disease remedies found today. Vitamin C is popularly known as an antioxidant. Antioxidants help repair the connective fibers and hasten the regeneration of the bone or bones that were damaged by the gum disease. Individuals who are vitamin C deficient are known to have high probability to experience gum disease.

Also one of the best natural gum disease remedies known today is tea tree oil gel. Tea tree oil gel is proven to be effective against severe chronic gingivitis (a mild form of gum disease). Tea tree oil gel is effective in reducing the degree of gum bleeding and gingivitis. Cranberry juice is also one of the natural gum disease remedies. Cranberry juice prevents the bacteria from sticking to the teeth, thus, reducing the build up of plaque.

Vitamin D is also one of the best natural gum disease remedies easily available. Vitamin D is known to have anti-inflammatory effects hereby reducing or minimizing the susceptibility to gum disease. Researchers found out that individuals who have high vitamin D levels in their blood are less apt to experience bleeding in their gums during gum probing. Vitamin D is the most readily available natural gum disease remedies because sunlight is the most abundant source of vitamin D. Experts recommend 10 to 15 minutes of sun exposure must be done two times a week to have sufficient amount of vitamin D in the blood level.

Always remember that prevention is the always the best cure. Exercise regular oral hygiene routine to have and maintain a healthy and gum disease free smile.

What are Gum Diseases and How to Stop Them

Gum diseases, also referred to as periodontal diseases, are infections in the tissues and bones that surround and hold up the teeth. Bacteria found in plaque, a sticky clear substance that builds up and hardens on teeth surface, mainly cause gum diseases.

There are several cases of gum diseases, the mildest of which is gingivitis. A person with gingivitis has red or inflamed gums, which bleed easily. Good oral hygiene is the first defense against gingivitis or any other gum diseases. Going to your dentist regularly is another way to prevent and treat this disease.

When gingivitis is not treated, it can lead to a more severe infection called periodontitis.

Periodontitis damages the teeth’s supporting bones and tissues, creating gaps between teeth and gums and eventually causing tooth loss.

While bacteria in plaque are the primary cause of gum diseases, other contributing factors are smoking and stress, both of which decreases the body’s ability to stave off infection.

Persons with diabetes and other diseases that weaken the body’s immune system are also at a high risk of developing gum diseases. Lack of proper nutrition can worsen this condition. Hormonal changes such as during puberty, pregnancy and menopause may also make a person vulnerable to this kind of infection. In some cases, gum diseases are genetic and early detection is usually the best way of prevention and treatment.

The following are symptoms of gum diseases: mouth pains, frequent gum bleeding, gum swelling, mouth sores, pus in between gums and teeth, bad breath, sensitive teeth, loose teeth and receding gums. If you have any of these symptoms, consult your dentist immediately.

If it is determined that you have gum disease or periodontal disease, the next best step would be to seek treatment from a periodontist or a specialist in this condition. A periodontist will be able to tell you if you should proceed with non-surgical or surgical treatment.

Usually, the first step to treating gum diseases is a procedure called scaling which involves removing plaque and tartar in between teeth and gums all the way to the roots.
Root planing is another way to smooth the surface of the roots. These methods are usually enough to get rid of the problem but if your condition persists, surgery is another option. Surgical treatment may include flap surgery where gum tissue is pulled back to clean the roots completely, grafts to replace destroyed tissues and bones, and other procedures that stimulate tissue and bone growth.

Prevent gum diseases by brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing and visiting your dentist regularly. These simple reminders are the key to keeping your gums healthy and your teeth intact.

Causes of Bad Breath

Causes of Bad Breath

There are many myths and rumors about the causes of bad breath. From underlying medical conditions to teeth cavities to decaying food particles left in the mouth. Although all these can be considered as causes of bad breath, the real cause could be traced back to one single culprit – bacteria, or more precisely, the anaerobic sulfur producing bacteria that normally live in our mouths.

These bacteria make their homes in the surface of the tongue and in the throat where they are responsible for assisting us in digestion. They help by breaking down proteins found in certain specific foods, mucous or phlegm, blood, and in diseased or “broken down” oral tissue.

When certain conditions identified as the causes of bad breath are present, these bacteria break down proteins at a much higher rate than normal. This also means that they release higher levels of waste products than normal.

The proteins in foods contain two major amino acid components – cysteine and methionine. Both of these amino acids are dense with sulfur, an extremely odorous substance. When bacteria metabolizes proteins, these sulfur components of amino acids are released as Hydrogen Sulfide, Methyl Mercaptan, and other odorous bad tasting compounds. Together, these compounds which are the causes of bad breath are known as volatile sulfur compounds.

Now, one thing you should know about these bacterial causes of bad breath is that they are anaerobic, which literally means “without oxygen.” In other words, they thrive in places where the environment contains ZERO oxygen.

You might ask why bacteria that supposedly live without oxygen could survive in the mouth where oxygen can flow freely through. Well, for the simple reason that these bacteria are smart little critters. Smart in the sense that they don’t exactly expose themselves to the oxygen-rich parts of the mouth and instead choose to hide in places where oxygen couldn’t get to them.

And where are these places? The back of your tongue, under layers of plaque, beneath food debris, and other such convenient hiding places.

So if you are wondering why you still have bad breath even though you regularly scrape your tongue and use mouthwash, then wonder no more. These bacterial causes of bad breath don’t live on the surface of your tongue. Instead, they live in between the papillae located in the back of your tongue where oxygen couldn’t get to them.

In addition, mouthwash does not normally get rid of these bacterial causes of bad breath. And make no mistake that having these bacteria in your mouth is a normal occurrence. Everyone has some type of bacterial flora in the mouth, since, as already mentioned, these microorganisms actually help in digestion. They only become a problem when these bacteria go on overdrive and release more volatile sulfur compounds, causing bad breath to be expelled.


Causes of Bad Breath

Home Remedies for Curing Bad Breath

Home Remedies for Curing Bad Breath


Who would want to have bad breath or halitosis? I don’t think anybody would want to have bad breath. Unfortunately, no matter how much we hated to have one if we do not take good care our oral and dental health, it is possible that we can have bad breath. But, do not think that proper oral and dental hygiene is the only reason for your bad breath. Of course not! There are several factors that can affect the odor of your precious mouth. Whatever the reasons maybe for your bad breath condition, it has to be cured. Before you buy any over the counter remedies, try and see if home remedies for curing bad breath work for you.

Curing bad breath need not to be expensive. There are lots home remedies for curing bad breath that you can take advantage of. These home remedies for curing bad breath may or may not work for you, but there are halitosis sufferers who are cured from these home remedies.

Some of the home remedies for curing bad breath that might solve your problem include:

• Brushing your teeth properly and regularly. Brushing your teeth is best done in the morning, every after meal, and before bead time. Don’t forget also to include brushing your tongue every time you brush your teeth. In doing so, you will fresh health teeth and gums, not to mention fresh breath.

• Flossing can help remover the deep seated food particles in between your teeth. These food particles if not taken will form into plaque and become the breeding ground of odor-causing bacteria. Dental floss should be one of your “tools” in your oral and dental kit.

• You may use mouthwash, but avoid those that have alcohol and dyes.

• Chewing mint leaves will give you fresh breath, especially after eating certain foods that give odor to your mouth like raw onions and garlic. This might give you temporary relief, still it helps remove bad odor in your mouth.

• Gargle with a cup of lukewarm water mixed with baking soda.

• Chew and entire clove or keep it in your mouth if you find it too spicy. It’s good for bad breath.

• Dip your tooth brush into baking soda and brush your teeth using it as your toothpaste. After that, you can brush again your teeth with toothpaste this time to give your breath fresh scent. This is best done in the morning and in the evening before bed time.

• Gargle a cup of lukewarm water mixed with salt or half a lemon juice. This is also best done before going to bed.

• Tea tree oil can also be used as your toothpaste or mouthwash. Put a few drops of tea tree oil on your toothbrush alone or top it with toothpaste, and then brush your teeth. You can use it as a mouthwash to help keep your gums healthy. Tea tree oil can also cure gum disease, which is possibly the cause of your bad breath. You can even soak your dental floss in tea tree oil.

Keeping your mouth smelling fresh and healthy will take a lot of effort, especially if you already have bad breath. Try and use any of the home remedies for curing bad breath listed above. Some works to other bad breath sufferers, they might work for you, too.

Home Remedies for Curing Bad Breath

Causes of Bad Breath

Causes of Bad Breath

There are many myths and rumors about the causes of bad breath. From underlying medical conditions to teeth cavities to decaying food particles left in the mouth. Although all these can be considered as causes of bad breath, the real cause could be traced back to one single culprit – bacteria, or more precisely, the anaerobic sulfur producing bacteria that normally live in our mouths.

These bacteria make their homes in the surface of the tongue and in the throat where they are responsible for assisting us in digestion. They help by breaking down proteins found in certain specific foods, mucous or phlegm, blood, and in diseased or “broken down” oral tissue.

When certain conditions identified as the causes of bad breath are present, these bacteria break down proteins at a much higher rate than normal. This also means that they release higher levels of waste products than normal.

The proteins in foods contain two major amino acid components – cysteine and methionine. Both of these amino acids are dense with sulfur, an extremely odorous substance. When bacteria metabolizes proteins, these sulfur components of amino acids are released as Hydrogen Sulfide, Methyl Mercaptan, and other odorous bad tasting compounds. Together, these compounds which are the causes of bad breath are known as volatile sulfur compounds.

Now, one thing you should know about these bacterial causes of bad breath is that they are anaerobic, which literally means “without oxygen.” In other words, they thrive in places where the environment contains ZERO oxygen.

You might ask why bacteria that supposedly live without oxygen could survive in the mouth where oxygen can flow freely through. Well, for the simple reason that these bacteria are smart little critters. Smart in the sense that they don’t exactly expose themselves to the oxygen-rich parts of the mouth and instead choose to hide in places where oxygen couldn’t get to them.

And where are these places? The back of your tongue, under layers of plaque, beneath food debris, and other such convenient hiding places.

So if you are wondering why you still have bad breath even though you regularly scrape your tongue and use mouthwash, then wonder no more. These bacterial causes of bad breath don’t live on the surface of your tongue. Instead, they live in between the papillae located in the back of your tongue where oxygen couldn’t get to them.

In addition, mouthwash does not normally get rid of these bacterial causes of bad breath. And make no mistake that having these bacteria in your mouth is a normal occurrence. Everyone has some type of bacterial flora in the mouth, since, as already mentioned, these microorganisms actually help in digestion. They only become a problem when these bacteria go on overdrive and release more volatile sulfur compounds, causing bad breath to be expelled.

Causes of Bad Breath

Get Rid of Bad Breath

Get Rid of Bad Breath

What causes bad breath? There are many rumors surrounding this embarrassing condition. Some people believe the odor comes from the mouth while others suppose that it must come from somewhere in the gastrointestinal tract.

Well, let the rumors be dispelled right now, as air can only escape from the esophagus in the form of the occasional burp. So unless you burp more often than normal, the cause of your bad breath may just come from something in your mouth.

While it is true that some forms of chronic bad breath may actually be caused by an underlying physical illness affecting the gastrointestinal tract, most bad breath cases are caused by bad oral hygiene. This goes without saying that one effective way to get rid of bad breath is to brush and floss your teeth and clean your mouth often.

In addition to practicing good oral hygiene, there are also certain steps you can take to get rid of bad breath. Below are just some of these steps:

Watch the Food You Eat

More often than not, the cause of temporary bad breath is the foods you eat. For instance, you may have eaten a meal and then suffered embarrassing bad breath later. You can blame the garlic, cabbage, or onions contained in your foods as these are rich in sulfur compounds which cause bad odor.

To get rid of bad breath caused by foods you ate, it is necessary to brush your teeth thoroughly after eating these kinds of foods. Or you can minimize your intake of these foods. You may also get rid of bad breath by using a good mouthwash but note that these liquid washes are only good for masking the odor. They do not really get rid of bad breath; at least not in the permanent sense.

Bacteria

Bacteria are also another cause of bad breath. Over 170 different types of bacteria live in the mouth. It’s no surprise really considering how bacteria love damp places and your mouth certainly is conducive to bacterial flora.

Now, if you do not brush your teeth after a meal, the bits of food left in your mouth become a virtual “feast” for these living bacteria. And in the process of metabolizing these, these bacteria produce volatile sulfur compounds which are extremely odorous.

To get rid of bad breath, you therefore need to remove these bacteria from your mouth. How? Well, take the fact that these bacteria are mostly anaerobic, meaning they cannot live in the presence of oxygen. In fact, the only way they even manage to survive in your mouth where oxygen passes through often is if they hide themselves behind plaque and food debris. If you get rid of these – plaque and food debris – then you get rid of bad breath.

Get Rid of Bad Breath

Bad Breath

Bad Breath

Bad breath, or halitosis, is a condition that is most often a source of embarrassment for the person affected. Yet, not many people with bad breath are even aware that they have this problem.

So how do you know if you have this problem?

A person can’t be expected to know right away that they have this problem. However, there are certain factors that may cause bad breath. To save yourself from embarrassment, watch out for these.

Food

Bad breath emanates from the mouth. It, therefore, makes sense that the first thing you should look into is your mouth – or more precisely, what you place in it.

The foods that you eat could affect how your breath smells. For instance, foods like garlic and onions are known to be highly aromatic and can contribute to objectionable odor in your breath. Some food leftovers will remain in your mouth, in the back of your tongue or in your saliva, and this could lead to bad breath. Additionally, after the food is absorbed in your bloodstream, they could be transferred to the lungs where their residual odor is expelled through the breath.

Brushing and flossing every after meal should solve the problem of bad smelling breath due to the foods that you eat. Mouthwash will also kill of bacteria and mask the odor temporarily.

Dry Mouth

The condition is known as xerostomia and it occurs when the flow of saliva decreases. Your saliva is not only useful for digestion but it also helps cleanse your mouth of food particles that may cause odor. If, for some reason, your mouth experiences a decrease in supply of saliva, the result is dry mouth which in turn will lead to development of bad breath.

Dry mouth may be caused by taking certain medications or problems with the salivary glands (responsible for secreting saliva). Increasing fluid intake should help solve this problem, just as sugarless candy and artificial saliva which your dentist may suggest.

Tobacco

Smoking is a major source of bad odor in the mouth. Not only cigarettes but all tobacco products may cause bad breath. Ask your dentist for some tips on how to prevent bad odor due to tobacco. He may suggest a particular type of mouthwash that would mask the odor. However, if you really want to get rid of bad breath, consider kicking the habit entirely.


If even after learning to avoid these factors and following all suggested treatments you still have bad breath, then perhaps it’s time for you to go see your dentist. If it is an oral condition, then he or she should be able to come up with a plan to treat it. Sometimes, however, bad breath may be a sign of a medical disorder. It may be caused by an infection in the respiratory tract, chronic sinusitis, and other ailments.

Bad Breath