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Have you ever been self-conscious about your bad breath? If you answered yes to this question, you’re not alone.
According to the Academy of General Dentistry, about 80 million Americans have bad breath. Although it is a common problem, finding a solution that works for everyone can be challenging.
Luckily, some natural remedies can help. In this blog post, we’ll explore eight natural remedies for bad breath and how they work. We’ll also provide tips on how to use them effectively.
Read on to learn more!
What is Halitosis?
The occasional bad breath isn’t particularly alarming. Morning breath is normal, and so is stinky breath after a meal with onions and garlic.
Halitosis, on the other hand, is chronic bad breath. It’s a major cause of embarrassment because it just doesn’t go away.
No matter how much you’ve brushed and flossed, no matter what food you’ve eaten, and no matter the time of day, halitosis is always present. The best course of action is to determine the root cause and taking the necessary steps to eradicate it.
Common Causes of Bad Breath
To get rid of the problem, the first step is to know the cause. Here are some common causes of bad breath:
Digestive Issues
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is when the muscle between the stomach and the esophagus doesn’t close properly. Because of this, stomach acids and undigested food particles go back into the esophagus, causing bad breath.
Infection
An infection in the mouth, lungs, or throat can lead to halitosis. Conditions such as gingivitis, bronchiectasis, chronic tonsillitis, and sinus infections can cause your breath to smell like rotting tissue.
Low-Carb Diet
A low-carb diet forces the body to enter into ketosis. Since there aren’t enough carbohydrates present, the body will break down fat and proteins. This results in the release of “ketones,” which is responsible for the unpleasant smell.
Medications
Medications such as antihistamines, antifungals, and antidepressants have been found to cause halitosis. Additionally, some dietary supplements and drugs used for chemotherapy can also cause bad breath.
Poor Oral Hygiene
In a research study published in theJournal of Natural Science, Biology, and Medicine, poor oral hygiene is the number one reason for bad breath.
Bacterial plaque can happen when you fail to floss and brush regularly. Over time, it can worsen and cause periodontitis, leading to bad breath.
8 Natural Remedies for Bad Breath
Here are some inexpensive, all-natural remedies for bad breath:
1. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar can help balance the PH levels in the mouth. This can effectively eradicate bad breath.
Take apple cider vinegar on its own, or you can mix it with water.
2. Baking Soda
While baking isn’t the most pleasant option on this list, it is one of the most effective. Baking soda regulates the acidity levels inside your mouth.
You can make your own mouthwash by mixing peppermint essential oil with baking soda. Mix a spoonful of baking paper, 2-3 drops of peppermint essential oil, and water.
Gargle the mixture for a few minutes. Do this in the morning and at night, and you’ll see an improvement in days.
3. Cinnamon
Cinnamon is a natural antibacterial. It can help reduce the incidence of dental problems and mask the smell of bad breath.
Add some cardamom seeds, one bay leaf, and a spoonful of cinnamon to hot water. Leave the mixture to rest for a couple of minutes. Strain and then use as a mouthwash.
4. Cloves
Just like cinnamon, cloves also contain antibacterial properties. This help freshens breath and cleans the mouth.
To get rid of halitosis, you can either chew on cloves or make clove tea. Boil water, add a few pieces of cloves in and leave it to brew. After removing the cloves, you may drink the tea or use it as a mouthwash.
5. Fennel Seeds
Fennel seeds have antiseptic properties that clean the mouth of bacteria. The seeds also encourage saliva production and freshen breath.
To reap the oral benefits of fennel seeds, simply take a spoonful, and you’ll immediately notice the effects.
6. Lemon Juice
The acidity in lemon stimulates the production of saliva, which in turn cleanses the mouth. Mix a few spoonfuls of lemon juice and water, then gargle the mixture for a few minutes.
7. Mint Leaf
Mint leaves provide an instant solution to bad breath. Just pop a mint leaf into your mouth and leave it under your tongue. You don’t have to chew on it. Take it out after a few minutes, and you’ll find yourself with a fresher, pleasant-smelling breath.
8. Parsley
Parsley contains chlorophyll which can help neutralize bacteria found inside the mouth. Chewing on a sprig of parsley makes for a great after-dinner habit. You may also dip the parsley into table vinegar before you chew it.
You Don’t Have to Live with Bad Breath
Yes, you may have bad breath, but it doesn’t have to stay that way.
The good news is that a home remedy may already be in your garden. Just take a proactive approach, and you’ll be on your way to fresher, pleasant-smelling breath in no time.
Isreal olabanji a dental assistant and public health professionals and has years of experience in assisting the dentist with all sorts of dental issues.
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