Bad breath is one of those problems that is downright embarrassing. We try to mask it with mint, gum, or social distancing–but with raised awareness of the causes and a few simple remedies, you can banish bad breath from your mouth.
Causes
There are a number of possible causes for bad breath. Possibilities include:
- Stress
- Alcohol consumption
- Dieting
- Dehydration
- A serious medical condition (diabetes, reflux, ulcers, respiratory disorder, kidney or liver malfunction)
- Certain foods (garlic, onions, strong spices, etc.)
- Imbalance of good and bad bacteria
- Intestinal parasites
- Dental problems (especially periodontal problems and tooth abscesses)
Remedies
The first step in getting rid of bad breath is identifying the culprit. Visit your dentist and get a thorough check-up to see if there are any periodontal issues causing the foul odor. Get your teeth cleaned to remove plaque that can attract foul-smelling bacteria in your mouth. Get any cavities filled, as these can also breed “stinky” bacteria.
In addition to seeing your dental health professional, some at-home fixes include:
- Swishing with water after eating
- Frequent brushing and flossing–and don’t forget to brush your tongue!
- Eliminate certain foods, such as foods with high acidity, fish, garlic, onions, coffee, or tea
- Eat more fruits and veggies containing digestive enzymes
- Increase your vitamin C, B, and zinc intake through diet or supplements
Email as at [email protected] or comment with any questions on this common problem.
