Bad Breath Solutions

Everybody has bad breath from time to time, especially first thing in the morning. You also may have bad breath when you are hungry, when you are dieting, or after eating foods with a strong odor, such as garlic, onions, or pastrami.

Transient bad breath is a very common temporary condition caused by such things as oral dryness, stress, hunger, eating certain foods such as garlic and onions, smoking, or poor oral hygiene. Morning breath is a common example of transient bad breath. Transient bad breath gradually disappears on its own, with the aid of chewing gum or brushing one's teeth.

Chronic bad breath is a more serious and persistent condition affecting up to 25% of the population in varying degrees. It can negatively impact the individual's personal and business relationships, leading to poor self-esteem and increased stress. This condition is usually caused by persistent overpopulation of certain types of oral bacteria, primarily streptococcus mutans, and requires specialized treatment.

Many things can cause bad breath. A major cause is decreased saliva. Saliva has a cleaning action that helps reduce or eliminate bad breath. When saliva decreases, bacteria can grow, causing bad breath.

Bad breath caused by a decrease in saliva may be especially noticeable:

in the morning. The flow of saliva almost stops during sleep. The reduced cleaning action of the saliva allows bacteria to grow, causing bad breath.
if you are hungry. Bad breath is more common in people who miss meals or are dieting. Chewing food increases saliva in the mouth. When you are not eating, saliva decreases and bacteria growth increases, causing bad breath.
if you are dehydrated. When you become dehydrated, you don't produce as much saliva. The reduced cleaning action of the saliva allows bacteria to grow, causing bad breath.
if you have diseases of the salivary glands which decrease the flow of saliva.
when you are taking certain medicines that dry your mouth.
after drinking alcoholic beverages because they lead you to become dehydrated.

Mouth and throat problems that can cause mouth odor include:

throat or mouth infections, such as strep throat.
dental problems, such as dental caries (cavities).
Gum Disease that may cause a metallic breath odor
tonsils with deep tunnels that trap food particles.
throat or mouth cancers.

To help improve your breath:

Gargle with water.
Brush your teeth, tongue, roof of your mouth, and gums at least twice a day with toothpaste.
Floss your teeth once each day.
Eat a low-fat diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
Eat less meat in your diet.
Do not smoke or use other tobacco products, such as snuff or chewing tobacco.
Eat at regular intervals. Dieting or missing meals can decreases saliva and cause bad breath.
Chew gum containing Xylitol, suck on sugar-free mints, or drink water, especially if your mouth is dry. Try using breath sticks, which contain the ingredients found in a mouth wash and dissolve in your mouth.
Use a mouth wash for temporary relief of bad breath. Swish it around in your mouth for 30 seconds before spitting it out
Have regular dental checkups.

Back to Information Pages

Providing cosmetic dentistry, dental spa treatment, pain free dentistry and periodontal care to the Seattle, Everett, Bothell, Edmonds, Mukilteo, Shoreline and Lynnwood, Washington areas.