Chances are if you have bad breath, you know it!!! I’m sure you’ve tried to mouthwash, mint and breath spray it away all to no avail. Before giving you some tips to help, let’s first look at the causes.

Causes of bad breath

1. Dirty Mouth: The most common reason for bad breath is an unclean mouth. Bad breath is caused by a build up of bacteria so keeping you mouth clean is your #1 priority.
2. Gum Disease: Just a more extreme case of an unclean mouth. The bacteria gets below the gum line, where you personally can’t get to it, and causes infection.
3. Dry Mouth: Lack of saliva leaves no moisture to wash away bacteria.
4. Smelly Foods: Foods like garlic and onions are an obvious reason for bad breath.
5. Ketosis: Is caused when the liver converts fat into fatty acids and keytones. This is usually as a result of a high protein, low carb diet.
6. Illness: Bad breath can be the result of diabetes, acid reflux and less commonly liver or kidney disease.

Now that we know the common reasons for bad breath let’s take a look on how to cure it.

Cures for bad breath

1. Keep a Clean Mouth. Brush, floss and scrap your tongue at least 2x a day. If you wear dentures make sure you take them out and clean them thoroughly also. Change out your toothbrush every 3 months to avoid a build up of bacteria on the brush itself.
2. Visit a Dentist. Get a regular dental cleaning and checkup for gum disease.
3. Drink plenty of fluids, preferably water. If your environment is very dry, avoid dry mouth by using a humidifier.
4. Avoid Smelly Foods. If you don’t put it in your mouth, you won’t have to try and get rid of the smell.
5. Eat Carbs. Eat a balanced diet that includes carbs to avoid ketosis.
6. See Doctor. If you have tried everything else and still suffer from bad breath set up an appointment with your doctor. Explain the steps you’ve taken and the lack of results. You may be sent for tests to eliminate the possibility of a more serious illness.

Everyone suffers from a bout of bad breath now and then. The fortunate among us, grab a toothbrush or a stick of gum and problem solved. For those that have a chronic condition hopeful some of these tips will help.