1. Smoking
Both smoking and chewing tobacco can leave behind stubborn chemicals in the mouth that can be very difficult to get rid of with just brushing alone. As a result, smoking long-term can lead to smelly tobacco-scented breath. Long-term smoking can also lead to health issues that are associated with bad breath such as gum disease.
2. Food
The main source of bad odours in our mouth is from the food we eat. It's only certain foods that can really leave behind a stench though and this includes garlic, cheese, fish and spices. Getting any food stuck within your teeth can also lead to stinky breath and it causes bacteria and plaque to build-up which can cause an unpleasant odour.
3. Allergies
Did you know that certain allergies can lead to bad breath? A sinus congestion due to allergies can lead to you breathing only from your mouth. This can lead to dry mouth, or xerostomia, where the mouth isn’t producing enough saliva so causes smelly breath. Certain medications to treat allergies can also cause dry mouth.
4. Pregnancy
One of the most surprising causes of bad breath can be symptoms associated with pregnancy. Whilst being pregnant itself doesn’t cause your breath to smell, things like nausea, morning sickness, hormonal changes, strange food cravings and dehydration which are all common with pregnancy can lead to a nasty stench on your breath.
5. Braces And Dentures
If you’ve ever had braces or dentures, you’ll know how easily food can get stuck in them. Food getting stuck can lead to bacteria festering which leaves a lingering smell on your breath until it's cleaned out. If your dentures are also misfitting, it can cause sores or infections that could result in your breath smelling.
Overview
If you’re wondering how to cure bad breath, then the first step is to tackle these surprising causes. For example, you can quit smoking, avoid smelly foods and make sure to keep your teeth and mouth clean daily. Whilst some causes you can’t avoid, such as pregnancy, you can still work towards maintaining good oral hygiene. Some of the best bad breath cures that work are associated with taking care of the health of your mouth and a clean mouth means a pleasant-smelling one!
To do this, make sure you're brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing where necessary. If you want to take your teeth cleaning to the next level, try an activated charcoal product as this magic ingredient works to bind to toxins and impurities that cause bad breath and wash them away. The best way to do this is by brushing with activated charcoal powder or by using an activated charcoal toothpaste. Just remember to find one that is natural, easy to use and has a refreshing minty scent!
