Five Natural Ways to Freshen Your Breath

Looking for a more natural way to freshen your breath? Check out these five holistic remedies.

Five Natural Ways to Freshen Your Breath

Bad breath is a very common complaint, but as holistic dentists, we understand that not everyone wants to turn to mouthwash or sugar-free gum as a remedy. Whether you want to freshen your breath after a spicy meal, or you just want fresher breath in general, there are many home remedies you can try. From green tea to probiotics, here are five effective and natural ways to get fresher breath.

What Causes Bad Breath?

Besides eating garlic, the most common cause of bad breath is plaque buildup. The bacteria in plaque release stinky sulphur compounds that leave a bad taste in your mouth and give your breath a foul odor. That’s why the easiest way to get fresh breath is to brush your teeth—brushing removes plaque. 

Bad breath can also be a symptom of cavities or gum disease. If you have chronic bad breath, and it’s been a while since your last dental appointment, then it’s time to schedule a checkup. If your teeth are cavity-free and your gums are healthy, then you might have bad breath from tartar (hardened plaque). A dental cleaning will remove tartar buildup and give you fresher breath.

Five Natural Remedies for Bad Breath

  1. Fresh herbs like parsley, mint, and cilantro can naturally cure bad breath. When you chew their leaves, they release essential oils with antibacterial properties that fight plaque and freshen your breath.
  2. Adding more probiotics to your diet will also help you fight bad breath. Foods with active probiotic cultures—like yogurt, kefir, and kimchi—have the power to fight plaque naturally. 
  3. Start using a saltwater rinse. Himalayan pink salt contains 84 different minerals, and it’s high in calcium. Not only will it kill bacteria, a saltwater rinse is also great for building strong tooth enamel. 
  4. Drink a cup of green tea. Green tea contains powerful antioxidants that stunt the growth of the sulfur-producing bacteria that cause bad breath. It also prevents plaque buildup by keeping the bacteria from sticking to your teeth. 
  5. Fennel seeds have been used to freshen breath in India for centuries. Try chewing some toasted fennel seeds after a meal, or brewing some fennel tea to use as a mouthwash. 

Holistic Dentist in Prescott, Arizona

Bad breath can be embarrassing, but it can also be a sign of dental illness. If you have bad breath that never seems to go away, make an appointment at Prescott Dentistry. We provide comprehensive, holistic dental care using the safest, most natural methods available. Find out for yourself what makes holistic dentistry different—contact us to schedule a checkup today.

 

Photo by Fineas Gavre on Unsplash used with permission under the Creative Commons license for commercial use 11/27/24.