Bad breath (called halitosis) is a common problem. In most cases, bad breath is the result of poor oral hygiene. Poor brushing and flossing leaves food particles between the teeth. Bacteria that build up on the back of your tongue or in between your teeth set up camp in your mouth, and release sulphur compounds which have the nasty habit of spreading a strong unpleasant odor.
THESE FOUR IMPORTANT AREAS IN THE MOUTH NEED YOUR CONCERN
Tongue – The tongue may be loaded with decaying food particles and bacteria that cause bad breath. Brush or scrape your tongue first thing in the morning and before bed. Brush with a toothbrush soaked in chlorhexidine (an antibacterial agent)or use a tongue-scraper. Pay extra attention to the back of the tongue. This part of the tongue is relatively dry and – as a rule – not well cleansed.
Teeth – Brushing your teeth three times a day is very important. Also flossing after a meal is a must. Get your teeth cleaned and any cavities filled twice a year. Make sure you use the right toothpaste.
Gums – Regularly clean your gums, followed by rinsing. Put an ounce of hydrogen peroxide in the water.
Saliva – Saliva helps prevent reproduction of bad smelling bacteria in the mouth. It contains an enzyme that can destroy the cell walls of bacteria. Talking a lot reduces saliva. As a result, people in conversational occupations (like politicians, anchors, actors and teachers) are at “prime risk”.