Bad breath (halitosis) occurs due to physiological causes such as decreased saliva secretion and certain diseases. Saliva keeps the mouth moist and prevents bad breath through its antimicrobial action. Enzymes called lysozyme and lactoferrin in saliva dissolve bacterial cell walls, preventing microbial proliferation.

 

Saliva secretion mainly decreases when meal times are irregular or when food is not consumed for long periods, and during physical activity. Conditions such as tonsillitis and stones, peptic ulcers, and gastritis also cause severe bad breath. Additionally, poor oral hygiene allows bacteria to proliferate in the mouth, worsening bad breath.

Bacteria in the mouth decompose amino acids and proteins contained in food debris, saliva, and blood, producing volatile sulfur compounds. However, if you have bad breath despite no particular health issues,... what could be the reason? What are the ways to improve it? Based on information from the American portal 'Yahoo.com,' I looked into this.

 

Brushing the tongue

 

If you suspect bad breath, it's a good idea to stick out your tongue in front of a mirror. Is the entire tongue turning white? If so, bacteria are covering the tongue. Be sure to clean your tongue thoroughly when brushing your teeth. A toothbrush is fine, but you can also buy specialized tools for cleaning the tongue at the pharmacy.

 

Chewing sugar-free gum

 

Eating onions and garlic causes bad breath that lasts until the next day. Conversely, there are foods that can mask that odor. According to dental specialists, the best among them is parsley. Its potent oil components suppress bad smells.

Cinnamon and spearmint have similar benefits. However, whether it's parsley or cinnamon, you can't carry them in your pocket. In that case, chewing sugar-free gum is the solution. Chewing gum not only masks bad breath but also promotes saliva production, which helps fight bacteria.

 

Quitting smoking

 

People who smoke usually have bad breath because smoking causes dryness in the mouth. Brushing your teeth can remove the smell of the cigarette you just smoked, but overall bad breath can only be improved by quitting smoking.

Reducing coffee intake

Same as smoking. Drinking coffee can cause dry mouth, which may worsen bad breath. Limit to about one cup of coffee a day. Dental specialists advise "consciously drink plenty of water instead."

 

Oral cleansing agent ingredient check

 

If you notice bad breath, you tend to carry oral rinses not only in the bathroom but also in your cosmetic pouch. However, according to experts, mouthwashes containing alcohol do not eliminate bad breath; they actually make it worse. This is because they dry out the mouth. Additionally, the change in the oral environment to an acidic state prevents saliva from performing its natural protective functions. Be sure to check the ingredients of the mouthwash.

 

 

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These days, tongue cleaners seem to be very diverse.

Than brushing with a toothbrush

Using a tongue cleaner is more effective.

 

Try to develop the habit of rinsing your mouth with mouthwash after brushing your teeth.