Getting Rid of Bad Breath

Now that we have covered the causes and symptoms of bad breath we can begin discussing remedies to help you get rid of the problem.

It is important to understand that for the most part we will be discussing bad breath remedies that would apply to an average bad breath problem. Serious medical conditions require intervention by your dental physician.

After visiting your dentist, if he cannot find a medical explanation for a persistent case of bad breath, consider trying someof the remedies we present.

De-Mystifying the Mouthwash Myth

As we mentioned earlier, all people have bad breath on occasion. When they do, most people immediately reach for the mouthwash. Not only is this ineffective but this action can also exacerbate the condition. Why is this so?

Mouthwash contains flavoring and dyes but most importantly the primary component is alcohol! They claim to kill bacteria, which is true in most cases. However, the bacteria is quick to return with an exponential affect because the alcoholic content causes dry mouth which is the leading cause of bad breath. It creates a very ineffectual cycle of repetition.

Commercial mouthwash products also contain other harsh chemicals. Studies have shown that excessive amounts of mouthwash irritate the gums, tongue, palate and mucous membranes in the mouth. If the user is a smoker AND consumes alcohol, heavy use of mouthwash can even cause certain cancers. It would be prudent to look at some of the other methods to deal with bad breath and stay away from the mouthwash.

If you would like to freshen your breath try preparing your own breath freshening mouthwash. A rinse consisting of a few drops of peppermint oil in a glass of water will do the trick nicely just don’t count on it to kill bacteria. Also just use it as a rinse and do not swallow.

There are other essential oils that work as well. Try tea tree, myrrh, spearmint, and ginger as they are also effective.

Rinsing your mouth with salt water is a great home remedy for a sore throat. It is also good for eliminating bad breath. You might also try rinsing with lemon or lime water as well. Both are equally effective and may taste a bit more pleasant than salt water.

Try drinking a small amount of apple cider vinegar in a glass of water at least once a day.

Banish The Breath Mints And Chewing Gum.

Neither of these commercial products are particularly helpful as they only mask the problem and in fact could cause tooth decay. Try some of our alternative recommendations:

Remember the trick the Greeks used? Anise seed is readily available and chewing on a few of them work just as effectively today as they did several thousand years ago. Fennel, cinnamon and cloves also work well. Try popping a few into your mouth after meals to fight bad breath.

There are many other natural replacements for commercial mouthwash. Try adding a bit of baking soda to your toothpaste. After all, not only is it used in cooking and the laundry, we also use baking soda to absorb odor in the refrigerator. It will work well to help eliminate bad breath.

Did you ever wonder why parsley and mint are often used as a garnish when dining out? Just like the Greeks, remember the Romans. Chewing on parsley helps fight bad breath.

The reason is the high content of chlorophyll. Chlorophyll very quickly changes carbon dioxide into oxygen in the body. This prepares the digestive tract to prevent gases and toxins from backing up and by lubricating the tract and various valves.

Boil a mixture of myrrh resin, sage leaves and lavender flowers in a small amount of water. Gargle three times a day as a bad breath remedy.

Aloe vera will cleanse the colon and prevent toxins that could possibly back up in the digestive tract.

Getting To The “Root” Of The Bad Breath Problem.

Poor dental hygiene is a major factor for the cause of bad breath. Yes, you’ve heard it before, brush and floss after every meal and make regularly trips to your dentist for cleaning and examination.

But, how many of us actually follow this regimen. Not enough, according to the American Dental Association. They report that periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in the United States.

Periodontal disease actually takes place in two different stages. Gingivitis is the first stage and only affects the gums. Gingivitis IS reversible if caught before it moves into the second stage called periodontitis. Periodontal disease is irreversible, causing tooth loss and potential bone damage.

Mother Nature has a way of teaching us just how delicate the balance can be between living a healthy or unhealthy lifestyle. Although it is not a laughing matter, one can’t help but recall the humorous comment made by someone that, “be true to your teeth or they will be false to you.” It certainly does apply.

Before we part company, if there were one single thing you can do to help prevent bad breath, it is to simply rinse out your mouth with fresh water after eating whether it is after snacking or between meals.

In most cases that is easy to do and can go a long way toward helping the bad breath problem as well as your overall dental health. Rinsing your mouth won’t eliminate all the bacteria producing particles, but it will get rid of some. Try it and make it a habit.

More Bad Breath Information

Bad Breath | Bad Breath Causes | Periodontal Disease | Periodontal Disease Help
Bad Breath Symptoms | Bad Breath Health Issues | Bad Breath In Children
Get Rid Of Bad Breath | Bad Breath Plaque | Learn Proper Toothbrush Usage
Bad Breath Eating | Bad Breath Diet