Before you can fix bad breath you have to have some idea of what is causing it. In about 80 to 90 percent of the cases of bad breath the culprit will be something that is in your mouth. Usually this will be nothing more serious that a mouth that is dirty. Plaque is one of the leading causes of bad breath. Plaque is an invisible layer of bacteria that is present in your mouth. Bacteria can often cause bad breath. Other dental factors, such as gum disease and cavities, can also cause bad breath. Bad breath can also be caused by something that is in the gastrointestinal tract or in the lungs. Systemic infections can also be a factor.
Strong foods are often a leading contributor to bad breath. For instance, a meal that has garlic in it can cause breath that is strong and foul. Other strong foods include onions and curry spices. These foods are carried along in the bloodstream and are then exhaled through the lungs. Alcohol and tobacco are other causes of bad breath. There are some health problems that can cause bad breath in some people, such as diabetes or sinus infections.
There are some things that you can do to keep your breath as fresh as possible:
• Keep your mouth clean. Try to brush at least twice each day and floss at least once.
Bacteria and food that is left in your mouth and between your teeth will cause bad breath.
• Brush your tongue. Bacteria left on your tongue can also contribute to bad breath.
• Avoid a dry mouth. Saliva will help to keep your mouth clean since it acts as a natural
antibacterial and helps to wash away food particles from your mouth.
• Rinse your mouth after eating. Rinsing with water can help to remove some of the food
particles that are left in your mouth after you eat. A quick rinse can help to fight bad breath.
• Chew on parsley. Although chewing on parsley won’t cure you of bad breath but it will mask
the smell for a short period of time. Spearmint will work just as well.
• Fight plague. Eating foods that help to fight plague can also help you fight bad breath.
Good food choices include peanuts, carrots, cheese, and celery.
The above tips will help to keep your breath sweet smelling. If you’re looking for a long term solution you need to find out the cause is behind your bad breath.
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