How to Cope With Halitosis

By eHow Health Editor

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Bad breath or Halitosis is a common and embarrassing problem. Gum disease, cavities, poor oral hygiene, oral cancer, bacteria on the tongue, medical problem and certain foods are some of the many causes of halitosis. Making a few changes can help you fight and prevent bad breath.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Step1

Drink more water to keep the mouth and throat hydrated; 8 glasses a day is recommended. Oral dryness, which increases bacterial build up, can cause or worsen bad breath. Chewing sugarless gum and sucking on sugarless hard candy will be of additional help in keeping the mouth moist.

Step2

Keep your diet clean. Eat more fruits and vegetables and less meat and cheese. Avoid sugar. It is especially important to eat a healthy breakfast as fasting can cause halitosis. Some foods like garlic, onion and cauliflower cause temporary bad breath, but in this case, the bad breath is cured as soon as the food passes through the system.

Step3

Quit smoking, using tobacco and consuming alcohol.

Step4

Practice good personal hygiene. Brush teeth at least twice daily, preferably after each meal. Brush, floss and use a tongue scraper after your last meal. Before going to bed is the most important time to make sure teeth are clean. Before going to bed rinse with a mouthwash that does not contain dye, flavorings or alcohol. An oil- and water-based mouthwash is most effective in fighting bad breath.

Step5

Have a yearly physical; it is a good idea in general. If you have concerns with halitosis, mention it to your doctor during the exam. Some medical conditions, allergies for example, and even some medications, can cause bad breath.

Tips & Warnings

It is difficult to determine bad breath by yourself. If you are worried, ask a trusted friend or dentist to give you an honest opinion.
In rare cases, the development of a condition called delusional halitosis can occur. This condition is linked to depression.
In cases of chronic halitosis, it is important to notify your doctor to rule out underlying medical conditions.