Bacteria that live in the mouth can cause bad smells. Learn how to deal with it

Halitosis is the medical name for the problem we know as bad breath, a common condition that affects a quarter of the population, which has or will affect half of us at some time or other. This is a problem when it comes to social situations because, regardless of the cause, it makes us feel insecure, damages self-esteem and, therefore, our quality of life.

Bad breath is caused by bacteria that live under the tongue and between the gums, which release hydrogen sulphide. One of the most common causes of smelly breath is poor oral hygiene, when rotting food remains are consumed by micro-organisms. Other unhealthy habits like smoking, drinking alcohol and fatty foods or not drinking enough water can also cause this problem.

However, halitosis can also be a symptom of certain diseases, such as sinusitis (inflammation of the sinuses), rhinitis (itching in the nostrils), gastritis (congestion of the walls of the stomach), gum disease and even diabetes.

Also, people with low salivation (mouth breathing and snoring that dries out the mouth) can also suffer from bad breath. Despite all this, the problem that can be prevented, treated, and resolved.

Tips for avoiding bad breath

1. Daily oral hygiene

Brush your teeth three times a day, after every meal and before going to bed. Don’t forget to clean your tongue (and under it), too. Dentists advise you use dental floss to remove the dirt that gets trapped between the teeth. Lastly, rinse your mouth with mouthwash. As well as cleansing the tongue and the palate, it will leave your mouth tasting fresh for hours.

2. Hydration

If your mouth gets dry, it may taste bad and you may suffer from bad breath, so remember to drink at least two litres of water a day and take frequent sips of water. Another way to stop your mouth from drying out is to suck sugar-free sweets or eat chewing gum or mints. The act of chewing will activate the salivation mechanisms and the halitosis will disappear, at least for a few hours.

3. Eat dairy

Dairy products reduce the levels of hydrogen sulphide produced by the bacteria that live in the mouth. Drinking a whole glass of milk while you eat counteracts the effects of garlic and onion.

4. Eat fruits and vegetables

A diet with plenty of meat, egges and fish and low in fruit and vegetables can cause the body to become too acidic, which can lead to reflux and bad breath. Remember to eat a balanced diet and eat vegetables every day, which will prevent an acid stomach.

5. Watch the garlic and onions

To neutralise the effect of onion, garlic and some spices on the breath, flavour dishes with aromatic herbs like parsley, rosemary, and basil. Apples, pears, watermelon, carrot, celery, and kiwi also help to counteract the strong odour left by certain foods.

6. Drink infusions

Tea and infusions such as thyme, anise, spearmint, and mint contain polyphenols, chemicals that inhibit the growth of bacteria that cause bad breath. Drinking tea and infusions is good for oral health, because they block the enzyme that catalyses the formation of hydrogen sulphide. Have herbal infusions or tea after every meal, which will help you to digest your food, as well as preventing halitosis.

Follow these tips for good oral health, and you will have fresh breath and avoid embarrassing situations.

However, if these tips do not do the trick and you still have bad breath, you should see a doctor who will investigate the cause of the problem.

This post is also available in: Spanish