Although bad breath can occur at any time of the day, many people experience "morning breath" after a night of sleeping due to the decreased production of saliva that occurs during sleep, according to MayoClinic.com. This condition is not always completely preventable, but simple home-care treatments and lifestyle modifications can decrease its frequency or intensity.
Step 1
Quit smoking, drinking coffee and eating other pungent foods. All of these things contribute to bad breath, according to GoAskAlice.com, Columbia University's health Q&A Internet service.
Step 2
Keep hydrated and avoid dry mouth. Increase the amount of water or fluid you drink during the day, as this may increase the saliva that keeps bad breath at bay, according to MayoClinic.com. In addition, drink a glass of water before going to bed at night.
Step 3
Practice good dental hygiene. Brush and floss your teeth at least twice a day or after every meal. See a dentist regularly, preferably once every six months.
Step 4
Spend extra time brushing and flossing your teeth at night before you go to sleep. Brush your entire tongue, but pay close attention to brushing the back of the tongue, where bacteria like to grow. Also, brush the roof of your mouth, then follow up with an antiseptic mouthwash.
Step 5
See a dentist to rule out a decaying tooth, dental infection or gum disease. Explain when you first noticed your bad breath in the morning, and allow the dentist to examine your mouth. Follow the dentist's advice to reduce or eliminate the condition.
Tips and Warnings
- Some mouthwashes are more useful at eliminating bad breath than others, according to website MSNBC. Ask your dentist about mouthwash recommendations based on your specific situation. If you are worried about offending your sleeping partner with your bad morning breath, consider keeping a bottle of water, mints or gum on the bedside table. You can use these items to combat your morning breath first thing upon awakening.
- Approximately 10 percent of all cases of bad breath are caused by a physical illness or disease, according to MayoClinic.com. See a doctor to rule out a more sinister cause responsible for the bad breath.
Things You'll Need
- Toothpaste
- Toothbrush
- Dental floss
- Mouthwash
