The Effects of Mouthwash and Toothpaste on Bad Breath
No one wants to think that they are offending others with their bad breath. And so, we spend lots of money searching for products, which leave us feeling fresh and confident that we are putting our best foot forward. But have you really given much thought to the ingredients in some of these products?
Some of the most popular ingredients in mouthwash and toothpaste are usually alcohol, peroxide or baking soda. And while they can certainly make your teeth, gums, and mouth feel clean and fresh, they may not result in the long-term results we expect.
Some mouthwash contains anywhere from eight percent to twenty five percent alcohol. That fresh, stimulating feeling that we assume is killing bacteria, may actually be drying out the mouth. And dry mouth is one of the causes of bad breath!
Peroxide contains oxygenating agents, which have long been touted as killers of bacteria. Haven’t we always been taught to wash cuts on the skin with peroxide in order to “bubble” away the harmful bacteria? Sure, and that is still the case, but when used in mouthwash or in toothpaste, the levels used are usually very small and the peroxide is quickly inactivated, so that it is not as effective as we might think.
Baking soda really does kill oral bacteria and it deactivates acids, which can cause bad breath. However, deeper layers of plaque, which may be found in periodontal pockets or at the back of the tongue is not acidic, it is alkaline. Deactivating the acid only serves to make the mouth more alkaline, which provides a basis for gum disease and more bad breath.
Some toothpaste also contains sulfur based ingredients. Sulfur is a natural cause of bad breath. So you see, you may actually be doing more harm that good. The best way to maximize your chances of escaping bad breath is to develop good dental hygiene habits and read the labels of any products that you are considering.
P.S. This is the proven method I recommend to my friends and readers. Read testimonials from previous sufferers.
