Bad breath even after brushing? Here is what could be going wrong

Bad breath on waking up is very common, but if it persists even after brushing, it should not be taken lightly. It is best to consult a doctor and get it treated in time. A coating on the tongue, gum disease, tooth decay, dry mouth and small bits of food stuck between the teeth are among the reasons dental problems worsen. To mask bad breath, people often use mouthwash or mint tablets. In medical terms, this is called halitosis. Ignoring oral health can therefore be risky. If bad breath persists even after brushing, the remedies listed below are worth trying, as they can help get rid of it.

It is important to understand why bad breath occurs after waking up in the morning. Saliva in the mouth works like a natural cleaning system. It washes away food particles, controls acidity and stops bacteria from multiplying. But while sleeping at night, saliva production, swallowing and tongue movement slow down considerably, which increases dryness in the mouth. Bacteria around the gums break down leftover food particles, saliva and proteins from dead cells. This releases foul-smelling, sulphur-containing gases such as hydrogen sulphide and methyl mercaptan, which is why bad breath is noticeable right after waking up.

The question then is why bad breath does not reduce even after brushing. There can be several reasons behind this: a layer of bacteria on the tongue, widening gaps between teeth, gum disease, bleeding gums, dentures, crowns or bridges that are not cleaned properly, and persistent dryness in the mouth. Because of these reasons, bad breath can continue even after brushing.

To reduce persistent bad breath, brushing twice a day is essential, as it eliminates bacteria in the mouth and provides relief from the odour. A fluoride toothpaste should also be used. Gently cleaning the back of the tongue with a tongue scraper removes the white coating that builds up on it. Drinking enough water every day and eating nutritious food that the body needs are equally important. Mouthwash only masks the smell for a short while, so if dental problems increase, timely attention and treatment on a doctor's advice are necessary.