Cures for Bad Breath  

Bad breath is a problem for most people some of the time, and for many people is an on-going battle.  What can be done to avoid the social embarrassment and the discomfort of halitosis?  Thankfully, there are many preventive measure available to counteract this unwanted malady. 

The first, and most important, combatant against bad breath is dental hygiene.  Daily brushing (yes, brushing after every meal is optimal for keeping food particles out of mouth in order to prohibit bacteria growth), flossing, and rinsing ( with a mouth wash that contains chlorine dioxide) are the frontline of defenses.  Drinking plenty of water and the use of sugar-free mint and/or gum can also help in keeping food particles off teeth and freshening breath at the same time.  Twice a year visits to the dentist are critical so that any mouth diseases can be discovered promptly; dental caries, gum disease, or periodontal problems, for example. 

Drinking plenty of water is not only a healthy practice that promotes general good health, but it keeps saliva levels normal in the mouth, which, in turn, creates an environment for fresh breath.  An overall state of well-being is an important part of everyone’s health regimen, and promotes healthy dental fitness, as well.  Deep breathing, exercise, and other methods of diminishing stress can contribute to an overall healthy balance. The entire bodily system is improved by the addition of fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to the diet. 

Some natural breath fresheners include: fresh parsley, nutmeg and fennel.  Historically, such products as baking soda, peroxide, salt water, fenugreek seed tea, cinnamon sticks, mint leaves, and peppermint oil have been used to aid in the elimination of bad breath.  Eating sugarless yoghurt can eliminate or reduce some odor producing compounds, like hydrogen sulfide, in the body. 

Keeping the tongue clean is another essential in promoting a healthy, odor-free mouth.  The back of the tongue is especially sensitive to the growth of bacteria and a highly wrinkled, or grooved, tongue can trap and hold onto food particles and bacteria.  Therefore, thorough cleaning of the tongue is a necessity.  When cleaning the tongue, do not use excessive force, and use a tongue cleaner/or scraper in order to prevent gagging.   

Tonsil stones, or tosillolths, are calcifications found in the back of the throat and can contribute to halitosis. They can be removed, or, in extreme cases, require a tonsillectomy.