When you wake up in the morning, how often are you put off by the smell of your breath? For many, this is a frustrating problem that often seems impossible to solve. No matter how well you take care of their mouth at night, it appears that there’s nothing you can do to prevent your breath from smelling when you wake up. If this is a problem you face, consider trying a few of these potential solutions.
Use A Tongue Scraper
Many people focus on their teeth when brushing but neglect their tongue. In doing so, they fail to realize that the tongue is the largest bacteria host in their mouth. Your tongue consists of many tiny grooves which can trap bacteria and cause bad breath. A tongue scraper is a useful tool to help remove bacteria build-up on the tongue.
Tongue scrapers are two handles that are supported by a rounded metal bar. Users can gently drag the scraper across the tongue, from back to front. In doing so, gunk that has accumulated over the day will be removed. Because you will be removing an abundance of bacteria right before going to bed, this tool could help combat morning breath.
Have Your Teeth Cleaned Regularly
No matter how diligent you are about brushing your teeth and flossing, food particles can still get trapped in deep crevices between your teeth. These food particles can attract bacteria, the main culprit in the fight against morning breath. You should undergo a teeth cleaning procedure at least once every six months.
Teeth cleanings conducted by your professional Long Island dentist will reduce plaque build-up and can instantly improve your morning breath. Teeth cleanings are a straightforward procedure that should not take much time but are crucial to protecting your oral health.
Keep Hydrated
Bad breath is worse in those with dry mouth. That’s because water and saliva work to wash bacteria away. When people sleep at night, their mouth may dry out, which can encourage the growth of bacteria while they sleep. It’s important not only to stay hydrated throughout the day but before bed as well. Try drinking a glass of water at night before bed and see if that helps fight your bad breath problem. Also, keep a glass of water by your bedside. If you wake up thirsty in the middle of the night, take a few sips, as thirst tends to be indicative of dry mouth.
Similarly, evaluate your mouthwash, as it may be contributing to your dry mouth. While proving effective in the short-term, some mouthwashes can cause dry mouth and lead to more bacteria growth.
Sleep With Your Mouth Closed
Of course, this is easier said than done, because you can’t consciously control this while you are sleeping. But what you may be able to control is your sleeping position. For example, back sleepers are more likely to sleep with their mouth opens. Finding a sleeping position that will keep your mouth closed could help fight morning breath.
