Cures for Stinky Breath

Bad breath, or halitosis, is typically the sign of less than desirable dental habits. When we do not brush and floss daily, food particles build up in our teeth, gums and on our tongue. Eventually, they begin to cause an odor. Bad breath can also result from eating smelly foods like garlic and onions that pass through our system, into our bloodstream and lungs and out of our body through our breath. In other cases, however, bad breath may be related to a medical condition like diabetes, gum disease, dry mouth, sinus infection or chronic acid reflux.

Practice Good Dental Habits

• The American Dental Association recommends that people brush at least twice a day; however, that is just the minimum recommendation. Carry a toothbrush to work or school to brush after meals as well. Use a toothpaste with fluoride and a soft-bristled brush for the greatest impact. In addition to brushing the teeth, also brush the tongue and floss daily. Replace toothbrushes every three to four months.

Watch What You Eat and Drink

• Keep track of what you eat and drink. Certain foods are more prone to cause bad breath than others. Drinks like coffee, beer and wine are also known to leave a residue in the month that can result in bad breath. Simply changing your diet may cure halitosis.

Curb Tobacco Use

• Eliminating tobacco can help you get rid of bad breath. Cigarettes and other tobacco products cause dry mouth and gum disease, and also leave a foul-smelling residue in the mouth.

See a Dentist Regularly

• Visit a dentist twice a year for a thorough cleaning. A dentist will also examine your mouth and gums to determine if the source of bad breath is medical. If the cause of bad breath is not dental, the dentist can refer you to a family physician for further examination.

Chew Gum

• As a temporary fix, chew sugarless gum. Gum creates saliva in the mouth that helps combat dry mouth. When the mouth is moist, it has an easier time removing food particles and bacteria that cause bad breath.

Pick Parsley

• Parsley is more than just a decoration on the plate. The green herb contains chlorophyll, a natural breath freshner. Chewing parsley releases this ingredient into the mouth.