How to Get Rid of Bad Breath

Recalling a joke an elderly patient shared with me years ago, has always assisted my bringing up a delicate subject with certain patients: “Doc, halitosis is better than no breath at all, ain’t it?”

Bad breath, morning breath, food breath—however you put it, is not pleasant. Many of my patients suffer from this common condition, especially when first waking up in the morning.

Image from www.sylverrosehealth.com

After a full and honest discussion with those patients, I offer them a sure method of controlling their problem by suggesting the use of a tongue scraper. While it’s not exactly a comforting name, this device will do wonders not only for breath, but also for one’s overall oral health.

Tongue scrapers (cleansers) by no means are new to the market. Did you know the ancient Ayurvedics of India used these to aid in digestion? It’s true! The practice of the tongue cleanser is well established, and people use it today in order to clear the tongue of toxins which causes bad breath as well as invasive sinus conditions leading to throat irritation.

Tongue scrapers are absolute necessities for smokers, and for those who enjoy pungent foods — I’m talking to you, garlic lovers! Not only will the tongue cleanser leave you with sweet-smelling breath, but your mouth will be free of the bacteria that can cause gum disease or tooth decay. We want to keep our precious smiles full of teeth, don’t we?

We all want to keep ourselves in tip-top shape; why not start with your mouth? A tongue cleanser will keep tooth-decaying bacteria to a minimum; keep your breath fresh and your gums healthy—all basic elements of excellent oral health. Parents, these are great for kids too!

A recent study from the International Journal of Dental Health noted that children who used tongue cleansers had a significant decrease in Mutans streptococci, a bacterium that can cause tooth decay.

I urge you to make scraping, brushing and rinsing a part of your morning routine Use these little tools constantly, since the bacteria that is found in the mouth can resurface after a few days.

You can find these at your local pharmacy or stores which specialize in oral health products. However, if you have trouble finding one, check out our Facebook page for our special on tongue scrapers, and stop by the office to get yours for free!