Ever wondered why alcohol causes bad breath?

Well, you're not alone! In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at the link between alcohol and bad breath and what you can do to combat it.

As we near the end of Dry January, many of us may be looking forward to indulging in a well-deserved drink or two. But have you ever wondered why alcohol causes bad breath?

First of all, it's important to understand that bad breath, also known as halitosis, is caused by a buildup of bacteria in the mouth. When we consume alcohol, it can cause dry mouth, which is a common cause of bad breath. Saliva plays a critical role in neutralising bacteria and odours in the mouth, so when the production of saliva is reduced, the bacteria can grow and produce unpleasant odours. This is why you might notice that your breath smells a little off after a night of drinking.

Another way that alcohol can cause bad breath is by breaking down into volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs) which are known to cause bad breath. This is because alcohol can cause the bacteria in the mouth to produce more VSCs, which can result in a strong, unpleasant smell. And let's be honest, no one wants to be caught with bad breath after a night out with friends!

Lastly, drinking alcohol can also cause the breath to smell like the type of alcohol consumed, such as beer, wine or spirits. But don't worry, there are ways to combat bad breath caused by alcohol.

The first step is to drink water and chew sugar-free gum to help stimulate saliva production. Brushing and flossing regularly, and visiting the dentist for regular check-ups is also important. Additionally, limiting alcohol consumption and maintaining a healthy diet can help to reduce the risk of bad breath associated with alcohol.

So there you have it! Now you know why alcohol can cause bad breath and what you can do to prevent it.

As we wrap up Dry January and return to our regular drinking habits, remember to take care of your oral health and enjoy your drinks in moderation. Cheers to a happy and healthy smile!

PS. Don't forget to keep up with your daily brush and floss routine, and don't skip out on those regular dental check-ups! And when it's time to upgrade your toothbrush, we've got you covered with our eco-friendly Tooth.Eco options. Keep those pearly whites shining!