05 Aug Natural Remedies for Bad Breath
Bad breath, or halitosis, can be frustrating and embarrassing. It can be caused by things you eat or drink, poor oral hygiene, gum disease, dry mouth, tobacco, poor denture hygiene, or it can be a symptom of an underlying condition. At Hicks Dental Group in Prescott, we want your mouth to be as healthy as possible. In addition to your daily oral hygiene, here are some simple, natural home remedies you can try for bad breath:
1. Water
Dry mouth is one of the main causes of halitosis. Staying hydrated can help increase saliva production, which helps the breath stay fresh. Water also flushes bacteria and food debris out of the mouth—we recommend swishing with water after meals.
2. Herbs/Spices
Parsley is a helpful remedy due to its high levels of chlorophyll. Chewing on fennel or anise seeds is a remedy that has been used to freshen the breath in India for centuries. This is because they release aromatic essential oils that also help kill bacteria in the mouth. Chewing on any of these herbs/spices after meals can keep your breath feeling fresher.
3. Xylitol Gum
Xylitol has antibacterial properties and also prevents plaque buildup on the teeth because the act of chewing gum also helps remove food debris from your mouth.
4. Lemon/Orange Rind
When you chew on a lemon or orange rind, the citric acid in them stimulates the salivary glands to produce more saliva, naturally improving the breath. Just be sure to buy organic to avoid pesticides and wash the outside of the fruit first.
5. Raw, Crunchy Foods
Raw, crunchy foods mechanically clean the teeth. Apples are a good choice because they contain a compound called pectin that can help counteract the foul-smelling properties of garlic, both in the mouth and in the bloodstream. Other examples include raw carrots, celery, broccoli and bell peppers.
6. Green Tea
Green tea has been shown to be very effective in temporarily treating bad breath. In a 2008 study, researchers found green tea to be helpful in neutralizing volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs) in your mouth. VSCs are produced by bacteria in the mouth, and are one cause of halitosis.
7. Tongue Care
Brush or scrape your tongue every morning to remove bacteria, fungi, and dead cells that build up overnight, causing morning breath.
8. Flossing
Food debris and bacteria trapped in between the teeth can cause unpleasant odors. Flossing daily can help remove these particles of food and bacteria, which will not only freshen your breath, but will also help keep your smile more beautiful.
9. Natural Mouthwash
Alcohol-free mouthwashes are a great way to improve the breath. Swishing with baking soda water is also helpful. Mix 2 teaspoons with one cup of warm water and swish for 30 seconds.
Give us a Call
If your breath does not improve after trying these remedies, be sure to come in and see us, as there may be an underlying issue, such as a cavity. And remember, brushing, flossing and keeping up with your regular appointments with us here at Hicks Dental Group in Prescott are the foundations of a healthy mouth and fresh breath. If you are due for an appointment, give us a call today.