Freelance Writing Jobs | Today's Articles | sign in

How to Get Rid of Bad Breath

And What Causes It

May 26, 2009 Mary Faler

Bad breath happens to everybody and is caused by some of the simplest things. Likewise, it can clear a room faster than anything. Here are some tips to get rid of it.

Bad breath stinks. Not only are there bad puns to be made because of it, but because it could cause anyone to have a really rotten social life. So, while that garlic and onion topped pizza is as tasty as can be, the person sitting on the other side of the table might not appreciate it as much. There are always the conventional ways of ridding oneself of bad breath, such as breath mints, gum, mouth wash, brushing the teeth, etc., but what happens when eating isn't the last thing on the agenda before home?

Causes of Bad Breath

Plain and simple, bacteria are the cause of bad breath. After eating, it's from the oils released by the food that sits in the back of the mouth and begins to grow, thus being carried through to the lungs and back out through the mouth again. Bad breath that occurs after a long night's rest is caused by the same thing, except this time probably the teeth weren't brushed properly. To accurately and correctly cleanse the teeth (and therefore the breath), brushing must last for at least two minutes; extra points if the tongue gets a nice scrub as well. Flossing is also recommended for those hard to reach places that might be giving shelter to unwanted odor causing ingredients.

Getting Rid of Bad Breath with Other Food

It sounds funny at first, but truth be told, some foods can actually rid the mouth of that foul aroma. They work in different ways, either by releasing oils to neutralize the pungent ones already released, or simply by releasing sweeter smelling oils. Chewing a sprig of mint is always a pleasant option. Cinnamon sticks, too, work much the same way; they both kill oral bacteria. If bad breath occurs when dining out, try chewing on a lemon wedge; most restaurants put them in the water or tea, and they're easy enough to request if they don't.

Or, if perhaps the food that causes bad breath happens to be the chili cheese dog at the local fair, so mint sprigs and lemons are not easily accessible, try going for prevention: half a cup of sugar free yogurt or berries should do the trick. Otherwise, drink a glass of water. Not only is it good for keeping the body hydrated and clearing the system out, it'll help clear the bacteria out of the mouth by taking all the food particles that might be harboring it.

Sources:

How to Get Rid of Bad Breath

What Causes Bad Breath?

The copyright of the article How to Get Rid of Bad Breath in General Medicine is owned by Mary Faler. Permission to republish How to Get Rid of Bad Breath in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

Bad Breath Causes People to Hide