Waking up to morning breath is one of those universally awkward human experiences. You’re lying in bed, still cozy, only to realize there’s something less-than-fresh happening in your mouth. But why does this happen? More importantly, how to prevent morning breath? Here’s what you can do to stop it from making every sunrise a little sour.
Why Is Morning Breath a Thing?
Every single year, Americans cash in over $10 billion on mouthwashes, toothpaste, gums, and similar products in the hopes of getting rid of bad breath. It’s a pretty common predicament, albeit a little bit embarrassing.
But why are we so concerned about how to prevent bad breath in the morning specifically? What does the time of day have to do with the foul odor? Well, as you’re sleeping, the bacteria in your mouth are kept pretty busy, feeding and breeding.
Also known as morning halitosis, the not-so-fresh odor comes as a result of the bacteria breaking down food debris and other natural substances. This releases sulfur compounds and other byproducts, giving your mouth that delightful “just woke up” scent that’s better left unsmelled.
Let’s Start With the Obvious – Oral Hygiene
The first possible culprit comes as no surprise. If you’re slacking off on your usual oral hygiene routine, you’re creating the perfect environment for bacteria to thrive. Food particles, plaque buildup, as well as dentures and braces that are not properly cleaned – all of this could make the bacteria feel right at home, leading to that unpleasant smell come morning.
What You’re Eating Can Also Be Behind It
Even with a good nighttime routine, what you eat in the evening can play a big part, especially if it includes foods like raw onions and garlic. In the stomach, these foods release compounds that travel all the way up to your upper airways. Last but not least, smoking can be another culprit behind that less-than-rosy smell in the morning.
Dry Mouth Is the Leading Cause of Morning Breath
The bacteria in your mouth feed and breed all day long, so why is foul breath a problem when you wake up specifically? One word – saliva. More specifically – how much of it is produced throughout the night.
While you’re sleeping, saliva production naturally decreases, and since it’s vital for flushing out different particles, you’re left with odor-causing buildup. Are you usually sleeping with your mouth open? The dry mouth and morning breath are even more of a thing then, and the same goes for taking certain medications.
How to Prevent Morning Breath Naturally
Morning halitosis is nothing serious, and even more importantly, it’s easily treatable. However, it’s more about figuring out how to prevent bad morning breath rather than just knowing how to get rid of it. Luckily, the solutions are just as simple as the causes.
Keep Good Oral Hygiene and Include Cleaning Your Tongue
The right oral hygiene routine will keep your teeth healthy and your breath feeling amazing. This includes flossing, brushing, and swishing mouthwash, which should leave you feeling fresh. If you’re unsure what to use exactly, you can always reach out to your Charlotte dentist in SouthPark for recommendations based specifically on your oral health.
On top of that, using a tongue scraper can work wonders when it comes to morning breath. A study from the National Library of Medicine found that it’s an effective way to immediately get rid of foul odor. This is because the tongue is home to plenty of odor-causing particles, especially in the back. Here’s how to use the tongue scraper:
- Hold the scraper firmly, positioning it towards the back of the tongue,
- Gently press down and drag the scraper forward in a slow, steady motion,
- After each pass, rinse the scraper to remove any buildup.
Stay Hydrated and Watch What You’re Eating
To increase saliva production and, therefore, reduce bacteria, you need to stay on top of hydration. Drink plenty of water throughout the day, and as for soda, alcohol, and coffee drinking, try to keep it at a minimum. When it comes to the diet, some foods can help saliva production – for example, fruits and veggies such as carrots and apples.
When Should You Consult Your Dentist in Charlotte, NC?
Many people worry about how to get rid of bad breath in the morning, but usually much more than they need to. Morning halitosis is often perfectly normal. The only tricky part is to tell if you have it, so it’s always helpful to ask a close friend or family member for an honest opinion.
However, if you have any doubts at all, you can always schedule a dentist appointment at Aspire Dental Wellness to see what’s going on. It’s a smart move, especially if you’ve already improved your oral care routine and followed our tips but still notice the issue.
Your Charlotte, NC, dentist can provide a thorough dental cleaning and exam, as well as recommend customized treatment plans to combat this persistent odor. Our team, led by Dr. Sladjana Bjelac, also specializes in treating conditions such as sleep apnea, which can contribute to dry mouth and, in turn, unpleasant breath.
Don’t Wait Around – Morning Breath Won’t Disappear on Its Own!
Ready to say goodbye to morning breath for good? At Aspire Dental Wellness, our holistic dentistry practice goes well beyond just freshening up your smile. From regular treatments to laser deep cleaning, our team is here to make your dental health journey both effective and comfortable. Contact us today to reserve your appointment – let’s get you that fresh, healthy mouth all day long! You deserve it!
