Prevent bad morning breath

What causes bad morning breath? Basically, sleep exacerbates the causes of everyday bad breath, especially dry mouth and post-nasal drip. As we sleep, saliva glands excrete less, causing dryness and sour breath. This happens for several reasons. First, we don't eat or drink while we are asleep; food and beverages stimulate saliva production. The semi-fasting state that accompanies sleep retards this process.Second, the constant flow of oxygen, especially among snorers and those who sleep with their mouths open, dries the oral cavity and the throat and creates a breeding ground for anaerobic sulfur producing bacteria.

The secret to stopping bad morning breath is to prevent the mouth from drying and the production of bacteria that cause bad breath. Humidifiers hydrate the air in the bedroom and can maintain proper moisture in the mouth and sinuses. Oxygen tablets, which dissolve in water and can be drunk before bedtime, stimulate the production of saliva which washes away volatile sulfur compounds and germs. It is important to drink at least eight full glasses of water a day; be sure to have a glass around bedtime along with a night time breath-friendly and literally mouth-watering snack, such as fruit. Be sure to brush well and floss before bed. Avoid salty snacks such as pretzels, chips, and food with onions which have dehydrating effects. Alcohol also dries the mouth.

As with any type of bad breath, the highest concentration of bacteria is on the tongue. As the tongue dries throughout the night, it becomes a breeding ground for anaerobic bacteria; two generations of bacteria and their waste products can be produced in an eight hour period of sleep. Make sure you clean your tongue thoroughly before bed after you brush and floss. There are many anti-bacterial oral gels which can be applied to the tongue and which prevent production of germs. After cleaning or brushing the tongue thoroughly, apply the gel generously from the back of the tongue to the front, since the highest concentration of germs are produced closer to the throat cavity. Follow with a good quality anti-bacterial mouthwash. Make sure you replace your toothbrush frequently, every three or four months, and that the bristles remain soft for efficient brushing. Remember to visit your dentist for regular cleaning.

A stuffy nose and post-nasal drip are also bad morning breath culprits. As those who often have trouble breathing during the night know, mucus gathers in the sinus passages during the night. Not only is this problem annoying, but it also produces protein rich places for bacteria to feed. To breathe easier as well as making your breath sweet, use a good nasal spray to clear mucus before going to bed and in the middle of the night as needed.