Bad breath, also known as halitosis, is a common condition that can make life uncomfortable and embarrassing. Bad breath can be a major source of embarrassment and discomfort, but thankfully there are steps that you can take to make it go away. It is caused by bacteria that grow on the back of the tongue, on the teeth and gums, and in the throat. In this post, we’ll discuss what causes bad breath and provide tips on how to prevent and treat it. We will also discuss the link between bad breath and underlying health conditions, and how to tell if your bad breath may be a sign of something more serious. In this post, we will discuss how to get rid of bad breath quickly and effectively. Finally, we’ll discuss the importance of good oral hygiene and how it can help to reduce bad breath.
What is Halitosis?
Halitosis (Scientific Name) is also known as Bad breath (Common English), Badabudara sansa (Hindi/Urdu), Durgandhi Asalela Ucchvasa, Swasachi Durgandhi, Mukh Ashudhi (Marathi), Viccam / Ketta cuvacam (Tamil), Cedu Svasa (Telugu), Kouchou (Chinese), Halitosis (Spanish), mal halito (Portuguese), Asbabhabika durgandhakta sbas (Bengali), durnoy zapakh izo rta (Russian), Bau Mulut (Indonesian).
Root Causes For Foul Smell from Mouth
Halitosis, commonly known as bad breath, is not only a sign of ill health but also a social stigma due to the unpleasant odor it causes on exhaled breath. It is prevalent in many people at all times and in all people some of the time.
One of the primary causes of halitosis is poor dental hygiene. Bad teeth and gum conditions can lead to dental decay at the roots of the teeth, resulting in abscesses in the gums that produce foul-smelling pus, giving an objectionable odor to the breath. Small holes in the teeth can harbor germs that multiply and release foul odors.
Other causes include various medical conditions related to the nerves, throat, respiratory tract, or stomach. Chronic infections or local disturbances, such as chronic tonsillitis, lung diseases like chronic bronchitis and bronchiectasis, chronic gastritis, and sinus infections, can cause discharges at the back of the throat, contributing to bad breath.
Gastro-intestinal disorders are another significant cause of halitosis. Conditions such as intestinal sluggishness and chronic constipation lead to the expulsion of an exceptionally large amount of waste matter through the lungs, resulting in an unpleasant odor.
Lifestyle habits like chewing pan, tobacco, and smoking also contribute to bad breath. Additionally, systemic diseases such as anemia can lead to an unpleasant breath odor.
Major Causes
- Poor oral hygiene: Not brushing and flossing regularly, or not brushing and flossing properly, can cause bacteria to build up in the mouth, leading to bad breath.
- Dry mouth: Saliva helps to wash away food particles and bacteria, so when the mouth is dry, the bacteria can build up, resulting in bad breath.
- Tobacco products: Smoking or chewing tobacco can cause bad breath.
- Certain foods: Eating certain foods, such as garlic and onions, can cause bad breath.
- Medical conditions: Some medical conditions, such as diabetes, sinus infections, liver or kidney problems, and acid reflux can all cause bad breath.
Halitosis Home Remedies For Bad Breath
Bad breath – halitosis cure natural way for adults and children with kitchen herbs.
1. Baking Soda
Try halitosis mouthwash that starts working in a minute. Mix together 1 cup of water, 1 teaspoon (5 g) baking soda and 3 drops peppermint essential oil. Pour into a clean glass jar with a tight fitting lid, cap, and shake. Use a small amount to rinse your mouth for about 30 seconds. Spit out – do not swallow. Peppermint is antimicrobial. Baking soda changes the pH (acid) levels in the mouth, creating an ant odor environment. Also brush your teeth with baking soda, a natural whitener which reduces agents causing bad breath.
2. Fenugreek seed
It is one of the best option for halitosis. Take a small teaspoon of fenugreek seeds and mix it with 1/2 liter water. Bring it boil on slow flame and boil it for 15 minutes. Steep it for some time and strain. Enjoy hot for everyday.
3. Holy Basil
Basil is great in treating foul smell breath. Make a mouthwash by covering 1 handful of dried basil leaves with 1 cup of boiling water, cover and leave for 15 minutes. Cool, and then rinse mouth well.
4. Lemon + Pomegranate
Lemon contains essential oils that create the characteristic zesty (or citrus) scent that helps to reduce unpleasant odors. Both lemon and pomegranate contain flavonoids that help strengthen connective tissues, such as those in the gums. Pomegranate also has a mild antibacterial effect. Here is easy and tasty drink recipe for you. Pour 1 cup water and 1 tablespoon pomegranate juice into a glass and stir in 2 tablespoons lemon juice. Add 1 packet (1 g) stevia. Drink in the morning.
5. Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide’s oxygen is a versatile cleansing agent, in the right doses. Its content kills mouth bacteria that cause bad breath. But be sure to dilute it with water before using. Mix 2 tablespoons hydrogen peroxide and same amount of water in a glass. Swish in your mouth for 30 seconds and then spit out. Rinse twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening.
6. Green Tea
Green tea has antibacterial compounds. Cinnamon is antimicrobial and aromatic. The oils in mint fight mouth bacteria that cause halitosis. Add 2 tablespoons loose green tea or 2 tea bags, 1 teaspoon crushed fresh mint leaves, and 1 cinnamon stick to 2 cups of boiled water. Steep for 5 minutes. Remove the tea bags, if using, and strain out the herbs. Sip and enjoy!
7. Tea Tree Oil
Poor oral hygiene can cause bad breath. It’s important to clean the teeth after each meal. Use an Ayurvedic toothpaste containing neem or an herbal formula. Also use dental floss every day. Applying some tea tree oil mixed half and half with neem oil to the gums and gently massaging will help prevent receding gums. Be sure to spit out the residue rather than swallowing.
8. Coffee Bean
A quick bad breath remedy with coffee beans. A secret tip to treat bad breath is to chew a coffee bean. This will refresh breath very quickly.
9. Rosemary
Chew fresh rosemary leaves. OR make a mouthwash with a pinch of cloves, cinnamon, anise seed, and rosemary. Steep in a cup of sherry for a week, and then strain. Use daily as required.
10. Essential Oil
Dilute 4–5 drops of essential oil in a teaspoon of brandy. Mix into a glass of warm water and swish around the mouth or use as a gargle. Myrrh, thyme or fennel oil will be equally effective. Do not swallow. This is excellent way to use antiseptic oils to treat mouth ulcers, gum disease, throat infections, and bad breath. These methods are not suitable for children.
11. Fennel + Cumin Seeds
After each meal, chew about 1 teaspoon of roasted fennel and cumin seeds (mixed half and half). This will improve digestion, which indirectly helps to detoxify the colon. The licorice flavored fennel seeds alone would be delicious and helpful, but this mixture will have a better effect. OR Cleanse the mouth with licorice powder and eat funnel seeds.
12. Parsley
Chewing on parsley will eliminate bad breath. Parsley chases away garlic breath when chewed fresh. A small piece of chocolate is said to have the same effect. All green plants contain chlorophyll, which neutralizes odors. Also, aromatic herbs contain essential oils that freshen breath. Place a sprig of any of parsley, basil, mint, or cilantro leaves in your mouth, chew, and swallow.
13. Fruits and Vegetables
- Vegetable Juice: Drink a combination of fresh carrot, celery, watercress, and cucumber juice with some paprika.
- Aloe Vera Juice: Drink ½ cup of Aloe Vera juice twice a day until freshness is restored to the breath if indigestion is the reason for foul smell.
- Pear : Indigestion can be reason one of the reason for bad breath. Eat food that regulates digestion. Pear is one of the great option for good digestion.
- Guava : For halitosis bleeding gums, eating guava is good exercise for teeth and gums. Guava contains tannic acid, malic acid, oxalic acid, and phosphorus. It also contains calcium, oxalate and manganese which is good for teeth and gums. Eating guava leaves helps to stop bleeding gums as well as bad breath.
- Walnut Bark: Chew walnut bark and rub it on the gums, then gargle with lemon water.
14. Cardamom Seeds
Chewing on cardamom is very effective as cardamom actually kills bad breath bacteria. For chronic bad breath, chew fresh coriander or cardamom seeds after meals they will act as a digestive and discourage bad breath. As bad breath is often due to chronic indigestion or malabsorption. OR Can try chewing fresh mint, or tarragon.
15. Yogurt
One more tasty remedy. Yogurt contains active bacteria helps to control the mouth bacteria that release malodorous chemicals, such as hydrogen sulfide. In one study, researchers found that eating 6 ounces (170 g) of yogurt a day reduced levels of this gas. In a bowl combine 1 cup yogurt, 1 cup strawberries, and ¼ cup chopped walnuts. Top with mint sprigs and serve.
Tips to Prevent Bad Breath
- Store your toothbrush in grapefruit seed extract to destroy bacteria which may be encouraging bad breath.
- A coated tongue is a prominent factor behind bad breath: The coating on the tongue contains some mixture of dead tongue cells, bacteria, and fungi that become trapped between the small projections (papillae) on the tongue’s surface. Daily tongue scraping and brushing decreases this material carpeting the tongue and improves mouth odor.
- If you wear dentures, remove them at night and clean them before returning them to your mouth. Removing daily bacterial buildup day from food and drink helps keep your breath fresh.
- If halitosis is caused by tooth and gum conditions, tonsillitis, sinusitis, smoking or anemia, these conditions must be treated. Once they are eliminated the bad breath will disappear. Similarly, bad breath resulting from gastro-intestinal disorders can be successfully treated by correcting these disorders and cleansing the system of morbid matter. The patients suffering from halitosis should take a well-balanced diet consisting of seeds, nuts and grains, vegetables and fruits, with emphasis on raw and cooked vegetables and fruits.
- Smoking main cause of bad breath: Stop smoking to reduce bad breath, which is the least of your problems if you are a smoker. It’s a tough habit to kick, but worth the effort.
- Floss at least once a day, preferably twice, before you brush.
- Brush your teeth after every meal.
FAQs.
Q. How do I obtain good, fresh breath? How do we keep fresh breath all day?
- First, it is important to understand the causes of bad breath. Common causes include bacteria, poor oral hygiene, dry mouth, certain foods, smoking, and medical conditions. By identifying the source of your mouth foul smell, you can take the necessary steps to get rid of it.
- Next, you should make sure to practice good oral hygiene. This includes brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing at least once a day, and using a tongue scraper to remove bacteria from your tongue. Additionally, you should make sure to visit your dentist regularly for a professional cleaning.
- Third, you should try to avoid foods that can cause bad breath such as garlic, onions, and spicy foods. Additionally, drinking plenty of water can help to keep your mouth hydrated and discourage bacteria growth.
- Finally, you should consider using a mouthwash or breath mints to help mask the odor. However, it is important to note that these products are not a substitute for good oral hygiene.
- By following these steps, you should be able to get rid of bad breath quickly and effectively. Remember, foul smell from mouth is a common problem but it is possible to manage it with the right approach.
Q. What are some ways to alleviate bad breath?
- Practice good oral hygiene: Brush and floss your teeth at least twice a day and use a tongue scraper to remove bacteria from the tongue.
- Drink plenty of water: Staying hydrated can help to flush out bacteria and other debris that can cause bad breath.
- Avoid certain foods: Avoid foods that are high in sulfur such as garlic and onions, as these can contribute to bad breath.
- Chew sugar-free gum or mints: Chewing sugar-free gum or mints can help to stimulate saliva production and help to flush out bacteria.
- Use a mouthwash: Using an antibacterial mouthwash can help to kill bacteria that can cause bad breath.
- Quit smoking: Smoking can cause a buildup of tar and nicotine in the mouth, which can contribute to bad breath.
- Visit your dentist: Visiting your dentist regularly can help to identify and treat underlying causes of bad breath.
Q. Do cavities cause bad breath?
Yes, cavities can cause foul smell. This is due to the bacteria that can accumulate in the cavity and release odor-causing compounds.
Q. Why bad breath in the morning?
Bad breath in the morning is usually caused by bacteria buildup in the mouth overnight. This is due to a lack of saliva production when we sleep, which normally helps to wash away bacteria. Poor oral hygiene, certain medications, dry mouth, smoking, and certain medical conditions can also contribute to bad breath in the morning.
Q. I have tartar, and bleeding gums. I have consistent bad breath, even though I brush twice a day. After brushing, just 1-2 hours later my breath gets really smelly. What to do?
It sounds like you may have gingivitis or periodontal disease. It is important to visit your dentist for a full examination as soon as possible. If a dental professional diagnoses you with either of these conditions, they can provide you with a customized treatment plan to reverse the damage and get your mouth healthy again. In the meantime, make sure you are brushing twice a day and flossing once a day to remove food particles and plaque from your teeth. You may also want to try using a tongue scraper or mouthwash to reduce bacteria that can cause bad breath.
Q. What is the best mouthwash for really bad breath?
The best mouthwash for really bad breath is one that contains chlorine dioxide, as this ingredient is proven to effectively eliminate the bacteria that cause bad breath. Other ingredients to look for in a mouthwash are zinc, cetylpyridinium chloride, and essential oils.
Q. Can peppermint essential oil give you fresh breath?
Yes, peppermint essential oil can give you fresh breath. It has been used for centuries to help freshen breath. It is also a natural antiseptic and can help reduce foul smell caused by bacteria.
Q. Why does mint give fresh breath?
Mint gives fresh breath because it contains compounds like menthol, which can help to reduce the odor-causing bacteria in the mouth. The refreshing taste of mint can also help to mask foul smell.
Q. Should I wash my mouth with yogurt for fresh breath? How to use yogurt for unpleasant odor?
Yogurt can be beneficial for your digestive and oral health, but it is alone not effective way to get rid of bad breath. Make sure you brush your teeth twice a day, floss once a day, and use a tongue scraper to remove odor-causing bacteria from your tongue. Additionally, remember to drink plenty of water throughout the day and avoid foods that are high in sugar and acidity. You can use yogurt in multiple ways to incorporate in every day routine.
- Eat yogurt as a snack: Eating plain yogurt as a snack can help reduce the problem. The probiotics in the yogurt help to balance the levels of bacteria in the mouth, which can help to keep bad breath at bay.
- Add yogurt to smoothies: Adding some yogurt to smoothies is an easy way to get the probiotics that can help reduce unpleasant odor. The yogurt adds a creamy texture and flavor to the smoothie and helps to keep your breath fresh.
- Use as a mouthwash: Some people find that using yogurt as a mouthwash is an effective way to reduce foul smell. Simply swish some plain yogurt around your mouth for a few minutes and then rinse out with water.
Q. Is there a cure for chronic halitosis? How do you cure halitosis naturally?
There is no single cure for chronic halitosis, but there are a number of measures that can be taken to reduce it and improve breath quality.
- Practice good oral hygiene. This includes brushing your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and flossing once a day. This will help to remove food particles and plaque, which can contribute the problem.
- Drink plenty of water. Staying hydrated can help to reduce the amount of bacteria in the mouth, which can help to reduce foul smell.
- Avoid foods that can contribute the condition. These include garlic, onions, and spices.
- Chew sugar-free gum or suck on sugar-free mints. This can help to reduce odors and stimulate saliva, which helps to wash away bacteria.
- Avoid smoking or using tobacco products, as these can contribute the halitosis.
- Use a tongue scraper to remove bacteria from the tongue.
- Use a mouthwash formulated for bad breath.
- Visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and check-ups.
- Address any underlying conditions that may be causing halitosis, such as sinus infections, GERD, or dry mouth.
Q. Are hyposmia and halitosis related to each other?
No, hyposmia and halitosis are not directly related to each other. Hyposmia is a condition in which a person has a decreased sense of smell, while halitosis is an unpleasant odor that comes from the mouth.
Q. Does smoking marijuana cause halitosis?
Yes, smoking marijuana can cause halitosis. Marijuana smoke contains many of the same chemicals as tobacco smoke, and these chemicals can irritate the mouth, throat and lungs. This can cause unpleasant odor as well as a dry mouth. Additionally, marijuana can also promote the growth of bacteria in the mouth, leading to an increase in unpleasant odors.
Q. What is halitosis, and how does it impact our oral health?
It is a condition where an unpleasant odor is present on the breath. It is usually caused by bacteria in the mouth, poor oral hygiene, certain foods, dry mouth, respiratory infections, or certain medical conditions. Poor oral hygiene can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health problems. Additionally, halitosis can have a negative impact on self-esteem and social interactions. People with halitosis often feel embarrassed and self-conscious and may avoid social interaction.
Q. Can bad breath come from the stomach?
No, it usually comes from the mouth, and can be caused by problems such as poor oral hygiene, dry mouth, gum disease, or certain foods. Stomach issues can cause halitosis if they lead to vomiting or reflux, but this is not a common cause.
Q. What causes bad breath even after brushing?
Unpleasant odor can be caused by many things, even after brushing. These can include food, certain medications, poor dental hygiene, dry mouth, smoking, and some medical conditions. Some people may also have bad breath due to certain lifestyle habits, such as eating a lot of sugary or spicy foods, and drinking alcohol or caffeine. Poor oral hygiene, such as not brushing and flossing regularly, can also lead to bad breath.
Q. Can cucumber stop bad breath?
No, cucumber cannot stop bad breath. Bad breath is caused by bacteria in the mouth, which can only be removed by brushing teeth and flossing. Additionally, unpleasant odor can also be caused by certain foods, smoking, and certain medical conditions.
Q. What can I give my dog for bad breath at home?
- Brush your dog’s teeth regularly with a toothbrush and toothpaste made specifically for dogs.
- Feed your dog crunchy treats and kibble to help remove plaque buildup.
- Give your dog raw vegetables such as carrots or celery to help scrape away plaque.
- Add a teaspoon of plain yogurt to your dog’s food to help keep good bacteria in the gut.
- Feed your dog probiotics to help with digestion and reduce bad breath.
- Give your dog fresh water after every meal or snack to help flush out bacteria.
- Give your dog green tea with no added sugar to help reduce bad breath.
Q. How do I get rid of my cats stinky breath?
The best way to get rid of your cat’s stinky breath is to brush their teeth regularly with a toothbrush and toothpaste made specifically for cats. You can also give your cat special dental treats and chew toys, as well as feed them a diet specifically designed to promote dental health. If your cat’s breath persists, you should take them to the vet for a checkup.
Q. Why does my cat’s breath smell so bad?
Cats’ bad breath can be caused by a number of things, including dental disease, digestive issues, kidney disease, or even diabetes. If your cat’s breath smells particularly bad, it’s best to take them to the vet to rule out any underlying health issues.