The coffee drinking culture is widespread and accepted around the world, however not everyone is aware of the potential side effect that comes with it – bad breath. Many studies have been done to investigate whether regular caffeine intake causes bad breath and if so, what are the underlying reasons behind it.
The participants in a study conducted by the University of Illinois revealed that caffeine creates dry mouth which, in turn, affects breath quality. It was found that most non-caffeinated participants had no noticeable mouth odour whereas the caffeinated ones displayed presence of volatile sulphur compounds.
Dry mouth occurs due to the lack of saliva, which is stimulated by caffeine. Lack of saliva makes it difficult to neutralize the odours that are produced by the bacteria in the mouth. In addition, coffee is also known to be acidic and this acidity can also lead to bad breath.
Studies on the effects of caffeine on saliva production have determined that caffeine reduces content of water in saliva, making it salty and reducing values for pH. Since saliva is a natural enemy of bad breath, such dehydrating effects could and do explain why coffee increases bad breath.
It is clear from scientific research that the consumption of caffeine affects bad breath and it is important to understand the connection between the two. Taking a few steps to ensure proper oral hygiene is the key to minimizing the effects of bad breath. Good oral hygiene consists of cleaning and brushing the teeth, rinsing the mouth and anything else that can help eliminate the bacteria and odour.
Coffee Substitutes
If getting rid of coffee isn’t an option, then replacing drinking coffee with beverages that don’t dehydrate the mouth can be beneficial in keeping bad breath at bay. Firstly, it is important to opt for decaffeinated coffee as the caffeine content significantly affects bad breath. Secondly, the beverage should be non-alcoholic as alcohol is known to amplify bad breath. Lastly, avoid beverages and foods that contain artificial sweeteners, because although they offer an alternate for sugar, artificial sweeteners can also lead to bad breath.
Additionally, substituting coffee for other beverages that contain electrolytes can be beneficial. Adding electrolytes to coffee keeps the mouth from getting dehydrated and could help in improving the breath quality. Lastly, adding a pinch of liquorice powder or clover honey in one’s coffee can not only reduce coffee bitterness, but it can also act as a natural breath sweetener.
Nutrition and Diet
Diet and nutrition definitely have a role to play if one is trying to avoid bad breath. Protein-rich diets have been linked to bad breath due to its metabolic actions in the body producing volatile sulphur compounds. According to one study, the presence of these compounds was more prominent in those who had a high-protein diet compared with participants who ate more fruits and vegetables.
In addition, it is important to take into account that acidic diets also cause bad breath. Foods like acidic fruits, sodas, soft drinks, and certain dairy products can increase mouth odour. One way to reduce the acidity levels in the mouth is to consume dairy products that are high in calcium. As calcium binds to the acid, it reduces the level of acidity in the mouth.
Conclusion
This shows that although coffee may have its effects, it can also be used in moderation as part of a healthy diet. If using coffee as part of a healthy daily routine, it can be beneficial to visit the dentist regularly and maintain good oral hygiene. Coffee may be a prevalent drink, but when it comes to bad breath, it is important to be knowledgeable about the effects it has on the oral environment.
Coffee Products
Apart from avoiding coffee, there are certain products that can be used to prevent bad breath. Mouth rinses that contain chlorhexidine are one of the options recommended by dentists as it reduces the formation of bad breath. In addition, probiotic yogurts, pastilles, sprays, and chewing gums could also help. Those products help in reducing volatile sulphur compounds, reducing formation of bacteria and subsequently, reducing bad breath.
Popping a Breath Mint
The use of breath fresheners and mints is an easy and convenient approach. Breath fresheners like chewing gum and mints such as peppermint are a great solution to help improve the quality of breath. Chewing gum increases salivary flow, which helps keep the mouth clean and fresh. Peppermint is frequently used in breath fresheners due to its active ingredient, menthol, as it creates a cooling sensation in the mouth and helps combat bad breath.
Increasing Water Intake
Drinking water can reduce bad breath. Saliva is not visible but it plays an important role in the mouth to help remove and reduce certain bacteria, therefore increasing water consumption boosts the natural cleansing process. Also, the increased water consumption helps in the dilution of odours. Since different types of foods give off distinct smell, it is important to pay attention to them. Drinking water will reduce the intensity of the odour and ultimately help improve the breath.
