Your bad breath may be masking more than just a garlicky lunch. When chronic, halitosis, can be a sign of gum disease, tooth decay, or harmful bacteria. There are some ways that you can combat bad breath naturally, but you should know when to reach for the mint and when to visit a throat doctor in Amherst.
Hydrate-
Dry mouth is one of the most obvious causes of bad breath, which is also known as halitosis. Without enough saliva, the mouth can’t rinse away bacteria. Make sure you’re drinking at least eight glasses of water every day to keep your mouth free of debris and nasty odors.
Replace Your Toothbrush Regularly-
You should be replacing your toothbrush regularly every two to three months.
Toothbrushes are a prime breeding ground for bacteria, and if you’re using it to clean
your teeth, you’re transferring those microbes directly to your mouth.
Drink Green Tea-
Green tea is famous for its abundance of antioxidants, the most notable of which is
known as EGCG. EGCG triggers the release of a natural antimicrobial chemical found in the gums.
Chew on a Lemon Rind-
You should make sure to rinse the rind first, but chewing on a lemon or orange rind could give you the citrusy burst of freshness your mouth has been craving.
Chew on Spices & Herbs-
Cloves, fennel seeds, and aniseeds are known for their natural antiseptic qualities, and
parsley, basil, mint, and cilantro contain chlorophyll, which neutralizes odors. You can
just crunch on these spices and herbs on their own, but if their flavor is too strong,
consider boiling them into a cup of tea.
Scrape Your Tongue-
You should be exfoliating your tongue just like you exfoliate your skin. Use either your
toothbrush or a spoon to scrape off the top layer of cells on your tongue to remove dead
bacteria and fungi. Just make sure not to forget the back of the tongue.
Rinse with Tea Tree Oil-
This essential oil is well known for its antimicrobial properties. It’s particularly effective at reducing volatile sulfur compounds, a chemical known to produce foul-smelling gases in the mouth. Dilute the tea tree oil with warm water and swirl it around in your mouth for a few seconds before spitting it out. Be very careful not to swallow it though.
When Should You Visit a Throat Doctor in Amherst?
If your breath still doesn’t improve even after using all of these home remedies, it’s time to visit a throat doctor in Amherst. Throat doctors in Amherst can’t fix tooth decay, but they can tell you whether the odors are a result of bacterial growth in the nose, throat or sinus cavities.
Book a Visit with a Throat Doctor in Amherst Today!
