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Mountain-Fresh Breath: Exploring Natural Remedies for Bad Breath

Published July 13, 2023 8:07 pm

Everyone experiences bad breath sometimes. It’s often caused by something we eat (like a meal with garlic or onion), while most of us have stale breath when we first wake up. If you have persistent bad breath, it could be a sign of a medical issue, like gum disease. Until you address the root cause of bad breath, what are some natural remedies for this common problem?

Cinnamon

Chewing cinnamon sticks is a very old remedy for bad breath. The spice contains an essential oil known for killing smelly bacteria! Instead of gnawing on a hard cinnamon stick, you can chew cinnamon gum or swish with a blend of cinnamon powder and warm water.

Parsley

Studies show chlorophyll has a deodorizing effect. Parsley, which is a leafy herb, is packed with chlorophyll! It also has a naturally fresh smell. After eating food with strong odors, try chewing a handful of fresh parsley for temporarily better breath.

Water

Have you ever wondered why your breath smells worse when you first wake up? It’s because your mouth is dry! Your mouth produces less saliva as you sleep, and without all that saliva to wash it away, smelly bacteria gather on your teeth. If you aren’t drinking enough water during the day, the problem continues. To fight dry mouth, make sure you’re drinking enough water.

Probiotics

Probiotics are live microorganisms found in fermented foods like miso soup, plain yogurt, sourdough bread, and more. Research points to some health benefits, including better breath! The probiotics might neutralize the sulfur created by bacteria in your mouth. You can eat fermented foods or take supplements. Probiotics cause side effects for some people, so talk to a doctor before starting a routine.

Better Oral Hygiene

Bad breath is often caused by poor oral hygiene and underlying issues like tooth decay and gum disease. If these aren’t addressed, remedies like cinnamon and parsley only provide temporary freshness! Improve your oral hygiene routine with twice-daily brushing, flossing, and trips to the dentist for regular cleanings and exams.

Enjoy Great Oral Health at Altitude Family Dental in Gypsum, CO

If your bad breath won’t go away, we recommend making an appointment with Dr. Rudin! Our team can determine if there’s a more serious issue going on and provide treatments like deep cleanings, dental fillings, and more. Please contact us today if you’re interested in visiting us!

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