You probably wouldn’t be surprised to learn that strong foods, such as garlic and onions, are common causes of bad breath. However, food doesn’t explain why your breath is less than pleasant immediately after waking in the morning, or other times when your breath may be offensive but you haven’t eaten anything especially foul-smelling. Regardless of its source, bad breath is embarrassing, and knowing where it comes from may offer your best shot at preventing or eliminating it.
Not Just Morning Breath
GERMS—as you read this, there about 600 different kinds of bacteria multiplying in your mouth. When these germs accumulate, they form plaque to stick to teeth and gums, and they’re the source of such dental issues as tooth decay and gum disease.
Some of these germs are also responsible for tainting your breath by releasing foul-smelling volatile sulfur gases. Many of these germs are fond of accumulating on the surface of the tongue, so be sure to carefully scrape your tongue clean when you brush and floss your teeth.
SKIPPING BREAKFAST—the first meal of the day is important for a number of reasons, but many people are unaware that eliminating bad breath is one of them. When you sleep at night, your saliva production is reduced. As your mouth’s primary natural defense against oral bacteria, saliva helps periodically rinse your mouth of these germs and lessen your chances of feeling (or smelling) their wrath.
In the midst of significantly less saliva, such as when you’re sleeping, oral bacteria can gather in force, contributing to the mystery of morning breath. Eat a well-balanced breakfast in the morning before brushing and flossing your teeth to stimulate your saliva flow and increase your toothbrush’s effectiveness.
DENTAL DISEASES—tooth decay and gum disease are commonly associated with bad breath because they begin as bacterial infections.
Be sure to brush and floss your teeth at least twice a day to help control the accumulation of bacterial dental plaque and prevent the onset of dental disease. Visit your dentist at least once every six months for a thorough dental exam and cleaning for additional protection.
