Do you love starting your day with a hot cup of coffee but hate the lingering smell it leaves in your mouth? That’s coffee breath.
It’s not just you; this is a common issue faced by many people who love coffee. Read on to learn how to get rid of coffee breath!
What Causes Coffee Breath?
You don’t need to understand the intricacies of dentistry to learn why coffee breath occurs, but it is important to know why your morning cup of joe can make your breath smell bad.
Sulfur
When coffee beans are roasted, sulfur-containing aroma compounds form. They, along with the acid content of coffee, are the root cause of bad breath.
When we drink coffee, the compounds in coffee interact with bacteria in our mouths. These bacteria proliferate and release volatile sulfur compounds that give off a distinct sulfur gas smell.
Dry Mouth
The caffeine in coffee causes dry mouth by reducing saliva production.
Odor-causing bacteria thrive in a dry mouth environment, where they can break down the compounds found in coffee and produce the characteristic smell associated with coffee breath.
The tannin in coffee can also contribute to bad breath by promoting the growth of these bacteria that release foul-smelling gases.
Tips for Getting Rid of Coffee Breath
Don’t worry; you don’t have to give up your beloved coffee. There are some super easy tricks to keep your breath fresh. Here’s what you can do:
Brush Your Teeth
After enjoying your coffee, brush your teeth. Scrubbing away the coffee particles and lingering odors can freshen up your breath, while also being great for your oral health.
You can use zinc or clove oil toothpaste to eliminate coffee breath.
Sugar-Free Mints or Gum
Pop in a sugar-free mint or chew on some sugar-free gum. These are quick fixes that stimulate saliva flow, which washes away the bad smells. Just make sure they’re sugar-free to prevent cavities.
Mouthwash
Swishing mouthwash around your mouth can reach places your toothbrush can’t. It’s an excellent way to wash away harmful germs and maintain oral hygiene.
Parsley
Munching on parsley can also help. This green herb is a natural deodorizer for your mouth and can go a long way in avoiding coffee breath.
Drink Water
Keep yourself hydrated with plenty of water. It helps produce saliva, which is your mouth’s natural way of cleaning itself and keeping your breath fresh.
Cinnamon Stick While Drinking Coffee
Try dropping a cinnamon stick into your cup. Not only does it add natural sweetness without the sugar, but cinnamon is also known for its breath-freshening properties.
Drinking Your Coffee Black
Adding cream or sugar can cause bad breath. Black coffee contains fewer additives that can contribute to bad breath.
Keeping Your Breath Fresh
Coffee can make your mouth dry and let germs make your breath smell bad. However, there are several ways you can enjoy your favorite beverage and keep your breath smelling good, as detailed above.
If the above tips do not work, check in with your dentist to see if there is another cause for your bad breath. Regular checkups are key to ensuring your oral hygiene is at its best!