Bad Breath : Causes,Prevention and Home Remedies

How do you know if your breath is less than pleasant? Without actually being told, you can't be certain. The common methods used are to blow into your cupped hands and smell quickly, floss your teeth and smell the floss afterwards or lick the top of your hand and take a whiff.

Causes Of Bad Breath

1.Plaque is a film of odor-producing bacteria that forms on your gums, teeth and tongue. Poor dental hygiene can result in tooth decay and gum disease.

2.Foods with strong odors such as garlic, onions and spices are absorbed into your body and exhaled out of your lungs. Acidic foods and beverages can promote sour breath.

3.Coffee and fruit juice can also cause an undesirable smell. Tobacco and excessive alcohol are not only detrimental to your health, they will wreak havoc on your breath and leave a bad taste in your mouth.

4.There may be an underlying health problem such as a stomach, intestinal or bowel infection that may cause less-than-favorable breath.

5.Sinus and throat infections are common and often cause a bad odor.


Home Remedies

1.Practice good oral hygiene and keep everything in your mouth as clean as possible. Brush and floss your teeth twice a day to get rid of plaque and food between your teeth.

2.Use baking soda toothpaste or household baking soda to freshen up. Brush white film on your tongue to reduce the bacteria residing there. Try to reach as far back as possible without gagging. A tongue-scraper is handy. Follow up with an antiseptic mouthwash to kill germs and give your breath a boost.

3.Drink some water, particularly after you've finished eating and keep some on your nightstand at home for a quick drink. In the day hours, chew on some sugarless gum or candy to keep the saliva flowing and enhance your breath.

4.Eliminate spicy and acidic foods. If you have stomach cramping, gas, bloating or diarrhea, reduce or cut out dairy products to see if you are lactose intolerant.