You know that nagging feeling you get when your breath doesn’t seem as fresh as it should be? Everyone experiences it. And if someone says they haven’t, well, they’re probably lying. For some of us, maybe our friends, family, or coworkers are confrontational enough to flat out tell us our breath is bad.
Regardless, Americans spend millions of dollars a month on bad breath remedies. What most of us don’t realize is that there are actually several items around our homes that could solve our problems—and save us money in the process.
The next time you’re experiencing bad breath, skip the expensive store-bought remedies and try one of these six options at home.
#1: Cloves
Cloves offer an immediate fix to any bad breath you’re experiencing. And, in the process, they actually get rid of a lot of cavity-causing bacteria in your mouth. Win-win!
Next time your significant other won’t come near you because of a particularly bad smell coming from your mouth, try sucking on a few cloves several times a day. Avoid clove powder or oil though, as these can cause burns. Stick to the solid cloves and you’ll be your kissable self once again in no time.
#2: Fruits & Veggies Are Your Friends
Healthier snacks, like apples, carrots, and celery act as natural toothbrushes. They’ll help get rid of the odor your coworkers cringe away from when you talk too close. They’ll also increase your saliva production which is one of the ways your body fights bad breath.
#3: Salt Water Rinses
One of the easiest ways to rid your mouth of bad breath is to do a saltwater rinse. All you have to do is add salt to a glass of warm water and swish it around your mouth for 30 seconds. Repeat the process until the glass is empty and poof! Your bad breath will be gone.
#4: Mix Up Your Own Alcohol-Free Mouthwash
Alcohol, found in most store-bought mouthwashes, dries out your mouth. A dry mouth is practically an open invitation for bacteria to come hang out. Kick out the bacteria squatters and try this easy recipe at home and make your own mouthwash!
- 1 cup of warm water
- ½ tablespoon cinnamon
- 2 juiced lemons
- 1 ½ teaspoon honey
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
Stir contents and store in a container. Your concoction will be good for up to 2 weeks!
#5: Tea Tree Oil—Not Just For Diffusers
Try adding a couple of drops of tea tree oil to your oral hygiene routine. Put a couple of drops on your toothpaste or brush your teeth with just the oil. It’s a great natural bacteria and microbes fighter.
#6: Apple Cider Vinegar
Have you ever eaten garlic or onions and notice the offensive odor they leave in your mouth after? Try swishing a mixture of apple cider vinegar and water next time. This simple, natural mouthwash will freshen your breath instantly and neutralize any lingering odor.
Fight Back Against Bacteria
If you have a healthy oral hygiene routine and none of the above solutions do the trick, it may be a sign of a dental problem. Make an appointment with your dentist and have them conduct an oral exam. They’ll be able to identify the problem at the source and get you the health solutions you need.
LeCroy Dental: Professional Bad Breath Eliminators
At LeCroy Dental, your health, safety, and care is our number one priority. We strive to make a dental experience that’s comfortable and professional for all of our clients. Contact us today to set up an appointment and see why bad breath bacteria hates LeCroy Dental. We’d love to hear from you!