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How to cure bad breath

Don’t fall victim to this embarrassing faux pas. - by Laura Barry
  • 28 Nov 2019

WATCH: Bad breath, leg cramps and cracked skin: what your body is trying to tell you

There’s nothing worse than speaking to someone who has no idea they have bad breath, except maybe being the person with bad breath.

Unfortunately, being caught out with bad breath happens to the best of us, mostly because of all the different things that can cause bad breath.

What causes bad breath?

  • Food such as garlic, onions, spices, cheese, fish and acidic beverages such as coffee can cause lingering smells.
  • Smoking or chewing tobacco products
  • Poor dental hygiene due to insufficient brushing, flossing, rinsing or infection
  • Dry mouth
  • Health issues such as sinus infection, pneumonia, sore throat or throat infections, tonsil stones, digestion problems
  • Some medications, such as antihistamines and diuretics
  • Dentures or braces
woman holding hand over mouth
Getty

How to get rid of bad breath

Some of the best ways to avoid bad breath are the simplest. 

Up your dental hygiene

Invest in a decent toothbrush and spend plenty of time ensuring your scrub all areas of the mouth and teeth. If you don’t have a great brushing technique, invest in an electric toothbrush which can improve poor brushing styles. Be sure to always floss and rinse using a mouth wash. If symptoms persist, see a dentist.

Stop smoking

Smoking or using tobacco products are one of the worst culprits for bad breath, and they can increase your chances of developing gum disease and oral thrush. Now is as good a time as any to quit.

Keep your mouth moist

Drink plenty of water and avoid caffeine, as this ca increase bad breath, and avoid mouthwashes that contain alcohol if you suffer from a dry mouth.

woman brushing teeth
Getty

Avoid stinky food

Need to ensure you have fresh breath all day? Simply avoid any foods with garlic, onions, spices, fish and other items that may be highly acidic.

Be prepared

Keep some minty-fresh chewing gum on your person,  or carry a small-travel sized mouthwash or breath-freshening mints with you.

Consider probiotics

If you think your bad breath may be caused by poor gut health or digestive issues, such as reflux, maybe try incorporating a probiotic into your routine.

When should you see a doctor about bad breath?

  • If your mouth is persistently dry
  • Sores develop in your mouth
  • If you have pain or difficulty swallowing or chewing
  • Broken teeth or tooth pain

You might also like:

5 things your mouth says about your health 

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  • Health
Laura Barry
Laura Barry
Laura Barry is a writer, bookworm and interior design enthusiast with a love for reporting on all things homes, travel and lifestyle. When not tapping away at her keyboard, Laura can be found making endless cups of tea or perusing the shelves of Sydney’s many bookstores.

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YOU’LL NEED A WEDGE TO HANG THAT DOOR
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{headline}

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How to pick the cleanest stall in a public toilet

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This is the one thing every healthy diet needs

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How to fix and avoid bad breath

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Study finds where you live can make you age faster

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