Seek Out Solutions to Say Sayonara to Morning Breath

Mondays, mosquitos, migraines, and morning breath – these are things that nobody wants in their life. Some are harder to get rid of than others. Fortunately, dentists know the root causes of morning breath and that stepping up one’s oral hygiene can help give that unwanted guest its eviction notice.

Below, you’ll find a variety of factors that can cause morning breath, as well as actionable information to minimize its impact as you begin your day.

What are the Causes of Morning Breath?

There are several potential causes addressed here, but the two predominant perpetrators are dry mouth and bad oral hygiene.

• Dry mouth: During the day, saliva helps rid the mouth of bacteria, but your saliva production decreases when you are asleep. Breathing through your mouth increases dry mouth and certain medications can, too.
• Poor oral hygiene: Your mouth is a breeding ground for bacteria, so if you aren’t brushing or flossing effectively, food particles can get stuck on the tongue, between the teeth or along gum tissue. Bacteria in your mouth breaks down these particles and causes bad breath.
• Periodontal disease: This affects the gums, causing infections between the teeth that lead to strong, persistent bad breath.
• Certain foods: Even if you brush your teeth well, eating items like garlic or raw onions in the evening can be problematic. They enter your bloodstream once digested, the chemicals are transported to your lungs, and then you exhale those odors.
• Tobacco: Particularly when smoked, tobacco is directly linked to morning breath. In addition to the unpleasant smoke smell, this unhealthy dental habit can dry out your mouth, leaving you at a higher risk of developing gum disease.  
• Gastrointestinal reflux: Aka acid reflux, this causes bad breath when stomach acid washes back up in your esophagus as you sleep.

How Can You Eliminate Morning Breath?

 Here are some ways to minimize the impact of morning breath:

• Step up oral hygiene before bed: Brush your teeth right before bed and don’t eat or drink anything afterwards. Use a tongue scraper, as well as floss and antiseptic mouthwash.
• Stop tobacco use: This will obviously improve your general health overall, but it definitely helps fight bad breath.
• Keep orthodontic gear clean: If you wear a retainer or a nightguard, be sure to clean it daily.
• Chew sugar-free gum: If you can’t brush your teeth for some reason before bed, the gum at least ramps up saliva production to clear bacteria and freshens your breath simultaneously. Sugar-free breath mints are also helpful.
• Take acid-reducing medication at bedtime: This is to combat gastrointestinal reflux in particular. Sleeping in an upright position may help, too.
• Drink lots of water in the evening: This keeps you hydrated and prevents dry mouth.
• Avoid strong-smelling foods: Pass on garlic, onions, and coffee in the evening.

Morning breath is always waiting to strike if you give it the opportunity, but fortunately there are many methods to fight it. If all else fails, visit your dentist to discuss treatment options.

About the Author

Dr. J. Lee Pettigrew grew up in North Texas and has been striving to provide Southlake residents with optimal oral care since opening his practice in 1989. Dr. Pettigrew strongly believes in continuing education, annually completing over 100 hours of courses to benefit his patients. He is a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry, which only four percent of general dentists in the U.S. and Canada qualify for. To learn about the dental services he offers, to schedule an appointment, or to ask a general dentistry question, visit his website or call (817) 481-4888.