How to Cure Morning Breath

Morning breath is a term used to describe halitosis experienced upon waking in the morning. During sleep, the production of saliva that washes away odor-causing bacteria during the day slows or stops. This allows bacteria production to rise sharply during the night, which causes morning breath. The problem can be especially pronounced in mouth-breathers or people who snore. Smokers also have more issues with bad breath.

Things You'll Need

• Toothbrush
• Oxygenated toothpaste
• Dental floss
• Tongue scraper
• Mouthwash

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Instructions

• 1

  Quit smoking or using any oral tobacco products. Smoking slows saliva production further, making the mouth even more prone to bacteria growth during the night. The tar also coats the teeth and gums, leaving a smelly residue.

• 2

  Maintain good oral hygiene during the day. Brush after each meal, three times a day. Brush just before bed with an oxygenated toothpaste. The bacteria that grow in the mouth during the night are anaerobic, so oxygenated toothpastes can help kill them before bed.

• 3

  Floss daily before bed. This removes any food particles trapped between your teeth upon which bacteria can grow during the night. Use a tongue scraper to scrape your tongue. Bacteria thrive on the tongue. Some toothbrushes come with a tongue scraper on the back of the brush head, so you can use that instead of buying a separate one.

• 4

  Rinse your mouth with an antibacterial mouthwash just before bed, after flossing and brushing. Gargle with the mouthwash so it can reach bacteria in the back of your throat.

• 5

  See your family doctor for any snoring issues you may have. Snorers breathe through their mouths, drying up any saliva production in the mouth cavity. Breathing through your nose will reduce bad breath.