Many people suffer from halitosis, a condition more commonly known as bad breath, a disorder that different factors can cause, which is very uncomfortable for those who suffer from it and those around them. In most cases, it is a problem related to poor oral hygiene habits, which favors the formation of bacterial plaque and the subsequent appearance of foul odor; however, it can also be a consequence of more severe diseases or pathologies, which is why it is a sign that should not be ignored.
In addition to going to the doctor or dentist in case of halitosis, some natural treatments effectively combat lousy mouth odor and improve the affected person’s well-being. Next, at FastlyHeal, we show you the best home remedies for bad breath.
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Causes of bad breath
Halitosis or bad breath is generally associated with poor oral hygiene, as discussed below. Still, it can also occur for other reasons and even, in some cases, be a sign of some disease or condition. Here are the most common causes of bad breath:
- Poor oral hygiene: if the teeth and the oral cavity are not cleaned as required, a bacterial plaque will end up forming that will lead to bad breath, in addition to the formation of cavities or the suffering of other oral conditions, such as gingivitis or periodontitis.
- Dry mouth: poor salivation is also often the cause of bad breath. And is that if the oral mucous membranes dry out, it is easier for bacterial deposits to accumulate in the oral cavity and give rise to an unpleasant odor.
- Some Foods: Consuming certain foods, such as garlic, onion, sauces, spicy ingredients, etc., can temporarily cause bad breath.
- Smoking: tobacco reduces the amount of salivary flow. It favors the accumulation of bacteria in the oral cavity, which is why it is also a factor that causes a bad smell in the mouth.
- Stomach conditions: halitosis can be a consequence of suffering from a disease in the digestive system, such as gastritis, ulcers, bacterial infections, or problems that affect the esophagus.
- Other conditions that can cause bad breath are throat or pharyngeal infections, lung diseases such as bronchitis, pneumonia or lung abscess, kidney or liver disease, and poorly controlled diabetes.
You must consult your doctor if bad breath is a frequent condition that does not disappear in the short term, as well as that you make sure that you have good oral health by visiting the dentist regularly (at least once or twice a year ) to submit to the relevant reviews.
Proper dental hygiene is essential to have good breath.
As we have pointed out, in most cases, the leading cause of bad breath is inadequate or poor oral hygiene. By not brushing the teeth well and cleaning all parts of the oral cavity, the formation of tartar and the proliferation of those bacteria that end up causing the bad smell is favored. For this reason, it is essential that you put aside bad habits in terms of oral hygiene and put the following measures into practice every day:
- Brush your teeth, gums, and tongue after every meal.
- Use dental floss to remove any residue or debris that has not been accessible with brushing.
- Use a fluoride-enriched mouthwash to help clean your mouth and have a fresher breath.
- Receive a professional oral cleaning once a year at a dental office.
- Take care of your daily diet and avoid excess foods rich in sugars or sweets, which significantly damage the teeth and promote cavities.
Citrus juices
For those who are looking for natural solutions to deal with halitosis and have a fresher breath, the consumption of juices made with citrus fruits is a great option that they can turn to. It turns out that the citric acid contained in fruits such as lemon, orange, mandarin, or grapefruit, is excellent for stimulating the secretion of salivary flow and preventing the oral cavity from becoming excessively dry. This will allow for more salivation and, therefore, the breath is much more pleasant.
Drink a glass of citrus juice whenever you want, be it at breakfast, mid-morning, snack, etc., and you will see how you immediately notice the difference, and your mouth is no longer so dry.
Infusions to combat bad breath
In the beautiful world of medicinal plants, there are some herbs that, by way of infusion, are incredible to combat bad breath and that, after consumption, leave a better smell and taste in the mouth. The most effective inputs that you can try to remedy this uncomfortable condition are the following:
- Mint infusion: mint is an ingredient in toothpaste and mouthwashes, thanks to its disinfectant properties and the fresh aroma it leaves in the mouth.
- Sage infusion: allows for regulating salivation and acts against the bacteria responsible for bad breath. It is also a good remedy for whiter teeth; discover more treatments for this in the article Remedies to whiten teeth naturally.
- Coriander infusion: it is an excellent antibacterial that effectively fights against the bacteria present in the oral cavity.
- Fennel infusion: has many health benefits, and, thanks to the fact that it contains anethole and its antibacterial properties, it is one of the best existing healing herbs to end halitosis.
Apple cider vinegar mouthwash
There are many medicinal uses attributed to apple cider vinegar, and among them, we contemplate that it is also an excellent home remedy for bad breath. This is mainly because it can break down plaque, eliminate bacteria that accumulate in the mouth, and facilitate the digestion of the food consumed.
To use it for this purpose, we advise you to use it as a mouthwash after your meals during the day. Add 1/2 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to a glass of water and gargle with this preparation for about 10 seconds. Repeat the procedure until the glass is empty, and you will notice its effects immediately.
Baking soda for bad breath
A product that you can easily have at home, such as baking soda, is also a great ally to fight against foul mouth odor and enjoy a more pleasant and fresh breath. This widely used product allows for modifying the pH level inside the oral cavity and resists the growth and proliferation of all those bacteria that give halitosis.
Here are the two possible ways you can use baking soda for bad breath:
- Add a little baking soda to your regular toothpaste and brush your teeth as you usually do.
- Add a tablespoon of baking soda and a few drops of natural lemon juice to a glass of water and gargle with the preparation for a few seconds.
Drink plenty of water
Did you know that as simple as drinking water can help you get rid of bad breath? That’s right, when water intake is insufficient, in addition to causing dry mouth, bacteria accumulate to a greater extent in the oral cavity and feed on the remains of food that have been lodged between the teeth, thus causing that unpleasant smell in the mouth.
Make an effort to drink plenty of water throughout the day, and carry a small bottle with you wherever you go for small sips.
This article is merely informative, at FastlyHeal .com we do not have the power to prescribe medical treatments or make any type of diagnosis. We invite you to see a doctor in the case of presenting any type of condition or discomfort.
If you want to read more articles similar to Home remedies for bad breath , we recommend that you enter our category of Teeth and mouth .
I am a Surgeon with a diploma in comprehensive ultrasound and surgical care residency, an area I am specializing in. During the exercise of my profession, I have realized the need for patients to know the diseases they suffer, and I can tell you that a large part of their complications is due to a lack of information. Being a health web writer allows me to transmit my experience, without borders, to all those readers eager for knowledge, educate them in the prevention of diseases and promote a healthy lifestyle.