Could Morning Halitosis be Alleviated with a Glass of Water?

Morning halitosis is an everyday occurrence that impacts us all. Regardless of how meticulously you brush your teeth at night, some oral bacteria will persist. Over the course of the night, these bacteria become active, releasing gases that result in an unpleasant sensation in your mouth and a distinct odor on your breath in the morning.

However, recent research indicates a simple remedy to combat morning halitosis: consuming a glass of water immediately upon waking. The forthcoming study in the International Journal of Dental Hygiene reveals that almost 60 percent of oral substances contributing to morning breath can be eliminated through drinking a glass of water or performing a thorough mouth rinse.

Read on to learn more about ways to prevent morning breath and contact California Dental Group at (800) 407-0161 if you need to make an appointment with a dentist.

Effective Strategies to Combat Halitosis

While the water-drinking technique can be an easy fix for instances when you wish to reduce bad breath without necessarily brushing your teeth, it is crucial to understand that the research does not indicate water as the ultimate or sole solution to halitosis.

Consistent oral hygiene remains the optimal strategy for managing bad breath. Here are some essential pointers:

• Regular brushing: Brushing your teeth is a highly effective means of controlling oral bacteria. It not only eliminates the food remnants that serve as bacteria’s food supply but also assists in removing the adhesive plaque layer that secures bacteria to your teeth. Ensure thorough brushing following your final meal or snack of the night.
• Daily flossing: Flossing is crucial for removing bacteria and food residues from between teeth and along the gum line, areas that brushing can’t effectively reach.
• Tongue cleaning: The bacteria responsible for causing bad breath primarily reside on your tongue rather than your teeth. Brushing your tongue with your toothbrush or utilizing a tongue scraper can help eliminate these bacteria, thereby improving your breath.

Continued Struggle with Bad Breath?

If maintaining improved oral hygiene still results in persistent bad breath, it might signal a more significant underlying issue. Potential untreated gum disease or tooth decay might be the culprit—your dentist can provide a definitive diagnosis. If your dentist finds no abnormalities in your mouth, the cause might be an underlying health issue such as a throat, nose, or lung infection, or liver or kidney problems. In such cases, it would be advisable to consult a doctor.