Bad breath (halitosis) is an embarrassing problem that can cause social awkwardness, embarrassment, and anxiety. Remedies for bad breath help reduce the number of bacteria and germs in your mouth that can be causing your breath to stink. Natural ways to get rid of bad breath include a saline mouth rinse, baking soda mouthwash, and practicing good oral hygiene.
In some cases, to cure bad breath you need to address any stomach or oral issues you may have. If gastrointestinal problems are the cause of halitosis, then probiotics, digestive enzymes, or activated charcoal can help permanently resolve bad breath. Chewing peppermint gum, drinking plenty of water, or rinsing with baking soda can all help to freshen breath, at least temporary.
If your bad breath is a result of a gum disease, go to see your dentist. Gum disease is a common cause of bad breath and a dentist will be able to advise a suitable treatment.
If you wonder why your breath smells bad all the time, this article will help you understand the reasons for bad breath. You will also learn about some of the best natural bad breath cures.
What Causes Bad Breath?
Common causes of bad breath (halitosis)
Halitosis is the medical name for unpleasant odors from your mouth, in other words – bad breath.
Researchers say that the main causes of bad breath originate in the mouth, not in the stomach. Usually, a buildup of bacteria and other microorganisms cause breath to develop a malodor. Halitosis can be the result of poor diet, bad oral hygiene, or underlying dental or health problems. (1)
Some bacteria can cause sulfuric compounds to form in the mouth that make your breath smell like rotten eggs.
The journal BMJ reports that plaque on the teeth and tongue can result in gum disease and inflammation. This can create an environment where bad breath becomes a chronic problem. (2)
Another cause of bad breath can be a dry mouth (xerostomia). Doctors from the Mayo Clinic say that saliva has a cleansing action in the mouth that helps rinse bacteria from the teeth and gums. Dry mouth conditions are usually the cause of bad breath in the morning, or “morning breath.” Also some medications can indirectly cause dry mouth, contributing to bad breath. (3)
Of course, certain foods are known to cause bad breath because they give off strong odors after consuming them. Doctors say that foods such as onions, garlic, coffee, cheese, and fish are among the worst culprits for causing breath that stinks. (4)
Smoking is also a common cause of bad breath. Doctors say that smoking leads to dental problems such as bad breath and increased risk of gum disease. (33)
Causes of bad breath from your stomach
Sometimes halitosis is a result of problems with your gastrointestinal system. However, this accounts for just 10% of the reasons why people suffer from persistent bad breath. (1)
The reasons why you have bad breath that comes from your stomach can include acid reflux, having an upper respiratory infection, or digestive issues. (5)
Although not in the stomach, tonsil stones can also cause bad breath. Learn more about tonsil stones and how to remove them to get rid of halitosis.
How to Get Rid of Bad Breath: The Best Home Remedies for Halitosis
Let’s look in more detail at some natural treatments you can use to cure bad breath.
It is good to remember, that persistent bad breath or constantly having a bad taste in your mouth could be a sign of periodontal (gum) disease. In these cases, many of the bad breath remedies here will only be a temporary solution until the gum disease is treated.
At the end of the article, you will find out when you should see a doctor or dentist for bad breath that doesn’t go away with natural remedies.
Good Oral Hygiene to Prevent Bad Breath
One of the most important ways to cure bad breath and help ensure your breath smells fresh every day is to clean your teeth properly.
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