Bad breath can be embarrassing, but it’s a problem that can be solved with a few simple changes to your oral hygiene routine. Here are five all-natural solutions to eliminate bad breath for good.
Avoid Bad Breath Habits
The first step to getting rid of bad breath is to avoid the habits that cause it in the first place.
Some of the most common causes of bad breath are poor oral hygiene, smoking, and drinking alcohol. Eating foods that are high in sulfur (like onions and garlic) can also make your breath smell bad.
If you can avoid these behaviors and eat a healthy diet, you’ll be on your way to fresh-smelling breath.
How to Deal With Dry Mouth
When you have dry mouth, your mouth is actually lacking saliva. And without saliva, bad breath is often exacerbated. So what can you do about it?
Drink plenty of water! Staying hydrated will help your body produce more saliva. And if you’re looking for a little pick-me-up, try drinking tea or coffee instead of alcohol or sugary drinks.
Another thing to keep in mind is to make sure you’re brushing and flossing your teeth regularly. Food particles that are left in your mouth will often cause bad breath. Brushing and flossing removes those particles and helps keep your teeth clean and healthy.
Ways to Boost Your Oral Hygiene
There are a few ways to boost your oral hygiene and help get rid of bad breath for good.
The first is to make sure you’re brushing your teeth at least twice a day (ideally, after every meal). Be sure to use a fluoridated toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush. You should also be flossing at least once a day.
Another way to keep your mouth healthy and free of bad breath is to drink lots of water. This will help flush out toxins and bacteria from your mouth. And finally, try to avoid sugary foods and drinks, as they can cause bacteria to grow and produce bad breath.
Herbal Remedies for Halting Bad Breath
If you’re looking for a natural, herbal solution to keeping your breath smelling fresh, you’re in luck! There are several herbs that can help to naturally combat bad breath.
One of the best herbs for this issue is parsley, which is rich in chlorophyll and has antibacterial properties that can help to break down odors and acids. Additionally, peppermint and spearmint are great for keeping the bad bacteria in your mouth at bay. Both of these herbs can be taken as tea or simply chewed on.
Another great herb is eucalyptus, which has been long used as an herbal remedy for bad breath due to its antiseptic properties. Cloves are also beneficial as they contain natural antiseptics which help to kill any bad bacteria in your mouth.
So if you’re looking for something a little more natural than over-the-counter treatments, give these herbs a try! They’re all simple, affordable solutions that could be the key to fresher breath.
Foods and Drinks to Help Rid Bad Breath
Raw vegetables, fruits, and whole grains are great for keeping bad breath away. Eating a lot of fibrous vegetables like celery and carrots helps stimulate saliva production which helps keep bad breath-causing bacteria at bay. Eating raw apples and pears with skins on can also scrape away plaque buildup on teeth, thereby freshening your breath. Whole grains like oats and barley contain polyphenols that help reduce the amount of sulfur compounds released from bacteria in the mouth, which also helps reduce bad breath.
In addition to food, drinking herbal teas like dandelion or licorice root tea can help freshen your breath. Licorice root tea contains compounds that help inhibit the growth of the bacteria that cause bad breath. You can also try drinking green tea or mint tea for a burst of freshness. Finally, don’t forget to swish some water around after eating food or drinking beverages as this reduces bacteria buildup in the mouth that leads to bad breath.
When to See a Dentist for Bad Breath
If bad breath persists, it’s time to visit your dentist. While all the natural remedies discussed above can help, there may be an underlying issue that needs to be addressed.
Common causes of chronic bad breath include gum disease and cavities. Bacteria thrive in the mouth, so it’s important to keep up with regular teeth cleanings and check ups with your dentist.
Your dentist can also advise you on other treatments that may help if the underlying cause is something more serious, such as a sinus infection or post-nasal drip. Diagnosing the cause is the first step to treating it and getting rid of that pesky bad breath for good.
Bottom line, there are plenty of all-natural solutions to banish bad breath. So, the next time you’re feeling self-conscious about your breath, reach for one of these instead of a mint or gum. Your mouth—and those around you—will thank you.