Halitosis: Beat Bad Breath

The most common cause of halitosis is waste products (volatile sulfur compounds) produced by anaerobic oral bacteria. The following are ways to make your mouth a less hospitable environment.

1) Minimize the amount of food available to these bacteria. Bacteria like protein. If you consume a diet of mostly meat, you’re at risk. In contrast, a vegetarian-friendly diet will reduce the amount of food bacteria favor.

2) Minimize the total number of these bacteria that exist. By brushing and flossing regularly, you’ll flush out VSC’s. Flossing is often overlooked, but an imperative step to good breath. Bacteria like to hide between teeth and along the gumline. Flossing is the only way to reach them. Also, be sure and clean your tongue thoroughly, either by brushing or tongue scraping.

3) Use products that help to neutralize volatile sulfur compounds. Look for a toothpaste with zinc and chlorine dioxide which possess neutralizing agents. Mouthwashes and toothpastes containing antibacterial agents will also improve your tongue brushing efforts to kill odor-causing bacteria.