Ask a Dentist

October 13, 2023

Q: Does Breath Spray Actually Work for Bad Breath?

graphic of a man spraying breath spray into his mouth

Nobody likes having bad breath, but there are some easy things you can do to prevent it before it becomes a lasting problem. Also known as halitosis, bad breath is one issue our patients come to us for help resolving, and they usually try to fix it with breath spray, mint or gum first. But does it work?  

Let’s explore how effective breath spray is at combatting bad breath, as well as other tips for keeping your mouth feeling fresh all day long.  

In a pinch, products like gum or breath spray can mask bad breath – but they’re only a temporary fix. However, breath spray will not permanently fix bad breath. Think of it as a quick patch job on a punctured tire – you’ll eventually need to get it properly fixed or the problem will keep coming back. For bad breath, this is by determining the underlying cause, whether it’s from not having proper oral hygiene, an infection or cavity, or something like tonsil stones.  

Breath sprays and chewing gum will increase saliva production in your mouth for a short period of time, which helps wash away odour-causing particles, and they typically have a pleasant smell. It’s also good to remember that some breath sprays can contain harsh chemicals that could do more harm than good to your teeth and breath.  

How to Prevent Bad Breath

Rather than relying on quick fixes, there are consistent habits you can build into your routine to combat bad breath. Try these tips to keep your teeth and breath feeling fresh all day long!

  • Brush twice daily and floss at least once a day.  
  • Use a mouthwash with fluoride for extra minty freshness and odour protection, steering clear of alcohol-based mouthwash as they can dry out your mouth, increasing the problem.
  • Brush your tongue, cheeks and the roof of your mouth (lightly, you don’t want to damage any tissue). You could even use a tongue scraper to get rid of pesky bacteria.  
  • Change your toothbrush on a regular basis, every three months and especially after you’ve had a virus.  
  • If you have dentures, remove them at night and clean them thoroughly before putting them back in your mouth.
  • If you use a nightguard, brush and rinse it every morning before putting it back in its case. You can even use toothpaste to get rid of bacteria build up.  
  • Stay hydrated throughout the day. Drinking water helps promote saliva production, and so does eating healthy foods or chewing sugar-free gum. Even rinsing your mouth out with water after meals can help prevent bad breath as it washes away bacteria-causing food particles.  
  • Reduce consumption of alcohol and tobacco products.
  • Visit your dentist for regular check-ups! This will help you stay proactive with your oral health and spot any problems before they accelerate.  

Concerned about bad breath? Book an appointment at one of our clinics, conveniently located in Garden City Shopping Centre and St. Vital Centre. Your dentist will be able to work with you to determine any underlying conditions and what next steps can be taken to treat the halitosis. We want you to have a confident smile, and part of that means making sure your breath and mouth feels healthy. So, don’t hesitate to contact us and book your next dental check-up – it’s the first step to long-lasting dental health.  

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