Have Bad Breath? Study Shows Mouthwash Helps

Bad breath results when bacteria and food residue build up at the back and in the furrows of the tongue. This mix breaks down into compounds that contain smelly substances such as sulfur.² Other bad breath culprits include the following:¹

• Certain foods such as garlic and onions

• Tobacco use

• Mouth dryness

• Gum disease

• Certain medical conditions such as chronic sinusitis, postnasal drip, chronic bronchitis, diabetes, or liver or kidney disease

To attack bad breath, brush your teeth twice a day, paying special attention to the gum line, and floss once a day. Dentures need to be cleaned thoroughly every day. Also important: Gently brush the tongue-especially the back part-twice a day.¹

Rinsing and gargling with a mouthwash is a good strategy to try, too, according to a study in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews.² Researchers reviewed five mouthwash studies involving 293 participants. Their findings? Mouthwashes that contain antibacterial agents such as chlorhexidine and cetylpyridinium chloride, and those that contain chlorine dioxide and zinc, can reduce odors to some degree. Keep in mind that chlorhexidine (available by prescription from your dentist) can cause temporary staining of the tongue and teeth.²

If bad breath persists despite these strategies, talk with your dentist or doctor.

¹ "Bad Breath (Halitosis)." American Dental Association. http://www.ada.org/public/topics/bad_breath.asp. Accessed 2009.
² "Mouthrinses for the Treatment of Halitosis." F.Z. Aljufairi et al. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. October 2008, issue 4.