1. Waking up to Morning Breath
It might not be pretty but everyone gets it to some extent at some time. Morning breath occurs because bacteria builds up in the mouth. Usually our saliva helps reduce bacteria by washing food particles and bacteria away. While we sleep saliva production deceases, our mouths become dry and this allows bacteria to invade the mouth and cause the unpleasant order. Also your tongue may fall to the back of your throat while you sleep. It comes in contact with bacteria on the back of the throat which also contributes to morning breath.
2. You Are What You Eat
Bad breath to a large extent is caused by anaerobic bacteria. Certain foods such as milk, cottage cheese and other foods high in dairy increase anaerobic bacteria and cause bad breath. Certain foods such as garlic also release byproducts into the bloodstream The byproducts are released into the lungs and when you exhale there is an odor. Bacteria in the mouth grows easier in an acidic environment. Foods which are highly acidic such as tomato juice and coffee may cause more bacteria and contribute to bad breath.
3. It Can Mean Gum Disease
As food gets trapped between your teeth and gums it causes a buildup of plague and bacteria. Eventually you can have tooth decay or develop gingivitis which is gum disease. Both are a common cause of bad breath. Other causes of bad breath include certain medical problems such as some lung conditions, kidney disease and gastric reflux disease. Infections of the throat and sinuses often cause an increase in foul smelling mucus and bad breath.
4. The 411 on Bad Breath Remedies
Good oral hygiene is essential to combat bad breath. Brush your teeth after meals to prevent food particles from remaining and breeding bacteria. Floss daily and be sure to brush or scrape your tongue and the roof of your mouth which both harbor bacteria. If you wear dentures clean them once or twice a day. Schedule regular dental visits to have a check up and get teeth cleaned twice a year. Deep cleaning under the gums may be necessary if you have been diagnosed with gum disease.
5. Foods That Combat Bad Breath
Just as certain foods can cause bad breath the opposite is also true. By eating certain foods you can help reduce bad breath. Chewing certain herbs such as rosemary and spearmint help reduce bad breath. Eat crunchy fruits and vegetables such as apples and raw carrots. They help clean the mouth. To increase saliva production and wash away bacteria chew sugarless gum and be sure to drink plenty of water. Drink green or black tea which contain compounds that can slow bacteria growth.
