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Is Morning Breath Inevitable? Gainesville, GA
Bad Breath Gainesville, GA

While some suffer more than others, it is rare to find someone who doesn’t suffer from bad morning breath at all. Even the healthiest mouths produce unpleasant odors, especially after several hours of sleeping. Morning breath is a common term because it affects a large number of the population. For those that brush and floss diligently before bed, this foul breath odor upon waking can be quite frustrating. What actually causes morning breath? And is there anything you can do to make it better?

First and foremost, it is important to realize that bad breath isn’t always harmless. If you have severe halitosis that occurs persistently throughout the day, it may be a sign of gum disease. Bad breath is most often triggered by excess bacteria in the mouth, which can point to dental health problems such as poor oral hygiene, infection or decay.

If you are only battling bad breath when you wake up, it is likely a result of what happens in your mouth while you sleep. During the night, your body’s saliva glands slow down. Saliva is a critical component of your oral health, as it helps to neutralize acids in your mouth, break down food particles and rinse away bacteria. Unfortunately, with less spit circulating in your mouth while you sleep, the natural bacteria (and possible food debris left behind) doesn’t get washed away like it might during the day. The bacteria feeds on these particles and releases a foul (sulfur-like) compound in return – which gives us that unwanted breath odor when making our morning stretch.

Ways to Promote Fresher Morning Breath

While you may not be able to get rid of morning breath completely, there are certainly things you can do to lessen its “kick” or severity. To promote fresher breath in the morning, pay attention to the following:

Brush, Floss and Rinse Before Bed – leave as little bacteria and food particles in your mouth as possible when your head hits the pillow.

Avoid Garlic and Onions at Dinner – once digested, these smelly foods can enter your bloodstream and return to your lungs to contribute to bad breath hours later.

Avoid Mouth Breathing– if you have been known to snore and breathe through your mouth while you sleep, you are setting yourself up for bad breath in the morning. These sleep habits contribute to dry mouth, a leading cause of foul breath odor.

Stay Hydrated – To lessen the effects of dry mouth and bad breath while you sleep, consider using a humidifier beside your bed. It is also very important to stay hydrated during the day and even keep a glass of water nearby during the night.

Brush Your Teeth and Wake Up Your Saliva Glands in Morning – To regain that fresh breath you need and desire, grab your toothbrush upon waking and try to eat breakfast soon after. Skipping breakfast can cause bad breath to linger, as chewing will “wake up” your saliva glands to boost your breath odor!

Think your bad breath is something more? Your halitosis may require more professional treatment, including gum disease therapy, cavity repair or other services. Call Gainesville Dental Group today to learn more about our dental care services for a healthy and confident smile!

The Gainesville Dental Group
1026 Thompson Bridge Road
Gainesville, GA 30501
(770) 297-0401
Monday & Tuesday 8:30 AM – 7:00 PM
Wednesday & Thursday 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday 8:30 AM – 2:00 PM

Posted on behalf of Gainesville Dental Group

Our Patient Reviews

Bev M.

Very happy with the staff at Gainesville Dental Group. The doctors are caring and experienced. I never am left in the waiting room. The hygienist always ask thorough questions and report to the doctor before the exam, saving me from having to repeat everything. Highly recommend.

Dennis C.

I came to Gainesville Dental Group with a crown that was in bad shape and painful. Dr. Vetter was very knowledgeable about what needed to be done and went to great lengths to ensure the treatment to resolve the problem was in my best interest. He and assistant Sarah Riley were very professional yet personable. They worked together seamlessly in a manner that put me at ease and were very focused on fixing the tooth. Any physical discomfort was minimal and both Dr. Vetter and Sarah were encouraging and positive. A very good experience.

Sarah R.

I come to Gainesville Dental Group for my routine cleanings and absolutely love it! It’s very clean and I love how up to date they are with digital X-rays and photos of the teeth. I had to have a filling and they were able to point out on the screen where my cavity was on the X-ray. It’s much easier getting the work done when you have an understanding of what the doctor is doing! Dr. Vetter did my filling and the whole procedure was pain free! I can’t say enough good things about this group!

Linda H.

Dr. Gannon and Hannah were great. They talked me thru my procedure and made sure I was comfortable and pain free. The office was friendly and pleasant. My hubby and son have used them and liked them. I've found a new dentist! Thank You GDG.

Candace C.

Since I started my orthodontic treatment fifteen months ago, the staff at Gainesville Dental Group have been exceptional. Dr. Vetter is so kind and energetic and Kim puts you at ease while she works miracles! I am thrilled at my results and that they worked within my timeframe. I gladly recommend The Gainesville Dental Group for a personalized experience. Thank you!

Kayla B.

The whole office staff is amazing! Super friendly and helpful. Dr. Gannon has always been very nice and does great work! My husband sees Dr. Vetter and has only good things to say as well. I highly recommend this office!

Lorrie M.

This is by far the best dental group I have been to in a long time. The staff is wonderful and caring. From the front office to the Dentists are a class act. Very kind and explain step by step. High quality work. Don't plan on going anywhere else. My husband has had the same experience. Do yourself a favor and check them out. Tell them Lorrie sent you

Bruce Y.

Great dental visit! Went in for annual cleaning and x-rays. Donna did an awesome job and pointed out a potential issue which she brought up to the doctor who concurred. It was an excellent visit. Thank you to the "team" @ Gainesville Dental Group.

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Contact Us

1026 Thompson Bridge Road
Gainesville GA, 30501

Tel: (770) 297-0401

Opening Hours

Monday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Our office is open for normal business hours and we are following all ADA/CDC guidelines to ensure staff and patient safety.