Home treatment for bad breath

Content provided by Healthwise

Print Email SHARE

Bad breath is a common problem. The following home treatment measures may help improve your breath:

Gargle with water.
Brush your teeth, tongue, roof of your mouth, and gums at least twice a day with toothpaste.
Floss your teeth once each day.
Eat a low-fat diet rich in fruits and vegetables every day. Eat less meat.
Do not smoke or use snuff or chewing (spit) tobacco.
Avoid foods and drinks that cause bad breath, such as garlic, onion, pastrami, or alcohol.
Eat at regular intervals. Dieting or missing meals can decrease saliva and cause bad breath.
Chew sugar-free gum, suck on sugar-free mints, or drink water, especially if your mouth is dry.
Remove dentures, removable bridges, partial plates, or orthodontic appliances and clean them once each day or as directed by your dentist. Pieces of food and germs can collect on these appliances and cause bad breath.
Use a mouthwash for temporary relief of bad breath. Swish it around in your mouth for 30 seconds before spitting it out.

Credits

Print Email SHARE

Author	Jan Nissl, RN, BS
Editor	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor	Tracy Landauer
Primary Medical Reviewer	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer	Steven K. Patterson, BSc, DDS, MPH - Dentist
Last Updated	September 26, 2008

Last updated:	September 26, 2008
Author:	Jan Nissl, RN, BS
Reviewed By:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine, Steven K. Patterson, BSc, DDS, MPH - Dentist
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. By using AOL Body, you indicate that you have read, understood, and agreed to our Terms of Service, and AOL Body Advertising Policy. Read more about our content partners.