If you find that your partner’s breath isn’t at its freshest when waking up in the morning, you’re not alone. Morning breath is a common and unpleasant problem that can be quite embarrassing. The truth is that morning breath is nothing to be ashamed of and can be prevented with proper oral hygiene. Here’s what causes this form of halitosis and how you can ensure that your breath is fresh for the new day.
Oral Hygiene Plays a Big Part in Keeping Your Breath Fresh
One of the most common causes of morning breath is poor oral hygiene. The human mouth is exactly the sort of warm, dark, wet, and sheltered environment that bacteria need to multiply rapidly, and they will do so if the oral cavity is not properly cleaned on a daily basis. The human brain is programmed to detect this sort of accumulation of harmful bacteria by scent (which is why spoiled food smells bad), so if your mouth has ample populations of these nasty germs, it won’t smell pleasant.
Proper oral hygiene includes a daily regimen of brushing, flossing, and using antibacterial mouthwash. It’s important to brush at least twice a day using a soft-bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste. Flossing eliminates food particles from between the teeth where a toothbrush cannot reach, and antibacterial mouthwash kills harmful bacteria on contact. Keeping your mouth clean will prevent these bacteria from accumulating overnight so that your breath will be fresher in the morning.
Waking Up with Dry Mouth
If you have excellent oral hygiene habits and still experience morning breath, dry mouth is probably behind it. Saliva plays a crucial role in preserving your oral health because it helps flush food debris, sugary residues, and harmful bacteria from the mouth. Saliva production decreases during sleep, which can allow bacteria to multiply overnight. Some medications also have a side effect of causing dry mouth. One of the best ways to prevent dry mouth is to stay properly hydrated throughout the day.
Smoking Can Leave Those Who Smell Your Breath Choking
Tobacco use is absolutely horrible for your oral health whether it is smoked or chewed. The noxious chemicals it contains can cause gum disease and dry mouth that allow harmful bacteria to accumulate in the oral cavity, setting the stage for further oral infections and bad breath in the morning. Most people also find the smell of secondhand smoke on another’s breath quite unpleasant, so it’s a great idea to quit this nasty habit if you want fresh breath that’s sure to impress.
In addition to practicing excellent oral hygiene and staying hydrated, you can also help prevent morning breath by keeping any oral appliances you wear at night clean and chewing sugar-free gum after meals. If you still have problems with morning breath after making the changes suggested here, consulting with your dentist can help you find a solution.
About the Author
Family Dental Associates of Spring Hill delivers exceptional oral health services to the community of Spring Hill, TN. Led by Drs. Emily Allen and Brandon Jewell, the staff makes sure that each patient receives effective treatments that allow them to smile brightly and breathe pleasantly. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry. If you are concerned about your own or your partner’s morning breath, contact the office online or dial (615) 302-1414.