Bad breath can be frustrating and even embarrassing – especially when it starts affecting your confidence. If you’re searching for effective ways to get rid of bad breath naturally, you’re in the right place.
At Ashton Avenue Dental Practice, your trusted Claremont dentist in Perth WA, we often see patients struggling with persistent bad breath (also known as halitosis). Whether it’s caused by poor oral hygiene, diet, or hidden dental issues, we’re here to help.
In this article, we’ll share 10 natural home remedies that can help you tackle bad breath – plus tips on when to see a dentist for professional treatment.
Here are 10 simple ways you can try to get rid of bad breath.
- Cloves
- Apples
- Green Tea
- Water
- Avocado
- Lemon
- Activated Charcoal
- Fennel Seeds
- Coconut Oil
- Cardamom Oil
1. Cloves
Cloves have long been valued in traditional remedies for supporting oral health, particularly around gum discomfort and breath freshness. Their natural compounds are often credited with helping reduce the bacteria linked to bad breath. Many people keep a few on hand as a natural addition to their oral care routine.
2. Apples
Biting into a crisp apple gets your saliva flowing, which naturally helps rinse away food particles and bacteria in your mouth. Their fibrous texture also gives your teeth and gums a workout as you chew. It’s a tasty habit that may support fresher breath throughout the day.
3. Green Tea
Green tea contains compounds that may help limit the growth of odour-causing bacteria in the mouth. A cup or two a day is an easy addition to your routine that also comes with other wellbeing benefits. Just be mindful that too much can lead to staining over time.
4. Water
Nothing beats plain water when it comes to keeping your mouth feeling clean and hydrated. Swishing a little around after meals helps loosen food debris and dilute the bacteria that cause odour. It’s especially useful first thing in the morning, when breath tends to be at its worst.
5. Avocado
Avocados are rich in nutrients that support healthy gums and may help keep bad breath in check. Some people find they work better for them than commercial mouthwashes, though results can vary from person to person. Either way, they’re a wholesome addition to a balanced diet.
6. Lemon
The natural oils in lemon peel can leave your mouth feeling fresher, with a pleasant citrus scent to match. A quick homemade rinse is an easy way to use it. Just don’t overdo it, as the acidity can affect tooth enamel with frequent use.
7. Activated Charcoal
Activated charcoal is often used for its ability to bind to certain impurities in the mouth and some people use it as part of a teeth-whitening routine. It’s found in powder or paste form and used sparingly. As with any abrasive product, it’s worth checking with a dentist before making it a regular habit.
8. Fennel Seeds
Chewing on fennel seeds after a meal is a age-old habit in many cultures, often used to freshen breath and aid digestion. They help stimulate saliva production, which plays a natural role in keeping bacteria levels down. It’s a portable option for freshening up on the go.
9. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil pulling is a traditional practice that involves swishing the oil around your mouth for several minutes before spitting it out. Advocates say it helps remove bacteria and may contribute to whiter-looking teeth over time. While research is still developing, many people find it a pleasant addition to their oral care routine.
10. Cardamom Oil
Cardamom oil is sometimes used for its aromatic properties, which can help mask unwanted mouth odour. It’s also thought to have properties that support a healthier bacterial balance in the mouth.
Causes of Bad Breath
If your bad breath isn’t enhancing with home treatment, consult your trusted Claremont dentist.
If home remedies aren’t making much of a difference, it’s worth booking in with your trusted Claremont dentist. Bad breath is a common issue that usually starts in the mouth and in most cases, it improves with good oral hygiene and regular check-ups.
Some common causes include:
- Poor brushing and flossing: Food and bacteria can build up on your teeth, gums and tongue if they aren’t cleaned thoroughly.
- Certain foods: Garlic, onion and spicy meals can leave a lingering smell on your breath.
- Gum disease: Sore or infected gums often cause ongoing bad breath if left untreated.
- Dry mouth: Saliva helps keep bacteria in check, so a dry mouth can allow odour-causing bacteria to multiply more easily.
- Smoking: Tobacco products can leave an unpleasant smell and increase the risk of gum disease.
- Tooth decay or mouth infections: Cavities, infections or mouth sores can all contribute to bad breath.
- Dentures or braces: If not cleaned well, food and bacteria can collect and cause unpleasant odours.
- Underlying health conditions: Occasionally, bad breath may be linked to issues such as sinus infections, acid reflux or diabetes. If it doesn’t improve with good oral care, it’s a good idea to check in with your dentist or GP.
When You Need to Consult a Claremont Dentist
Most cases of bad breath start in the mouth and tend to respond well to improved dental hygiene. Seeing your dentist for a check-up and professional cleaning every six months is one of the best ways to stay ahead of potential problems like tooth decay, gum disease and plaque build-up.
Regular visits also help keep your day-to-day oral hygiene on track and your smile looking and feeling its best. That said, if bad breath continues despite brushing, flossing and routine dental visits, it may be worth a closer look.
Ashton Avenue Dental Practice
2 Ashton Avenue, Claremont, Western Australia, 6010
Call: 08 6728 3800
