TRAVELERS BAD BREATH: WHY YOU GET IT AND WHAT TO DO ABOUT IT
Whether on a plane, train or automobile travelers bad breath can happen to good people. You’re either the culprit or you’re the victim and for all parties, it can be embarrassing and unpleasant.
To use the more technical term, halitosis will occur at one time or another and happen to all of us who have the wanderlust.
So here are some causes, and remedies should halitosis rear its ugly head, or should I say in this case, its smelly head.
A CLOSED MOUTH – MORNING BREATH AT ANY TIME OF THE DAY
When you’re traveling long distances, chances are, you’ll sleep, and closed eyes usually go along with a closed mouth. This is when bacteria can multiply and create those unpleasant odors, aka morning breath.
Remedy: You can minimize the effect or morning breath by starting with good hygiene. Brushing your teeth regularly, flossing and mouthwash. If you’re not able to brush your teeth or if you’re like me and don’t like to brush your teeth in public spaces, a good alternative is disposable pretreated brushes. There are several on the market. Another option is to Chew sugarless gum that contains xylitol. Chewing gum increases salivary flow and helps remove some of the bacteria.
AN INSIDE OUT JOB
Your diet plays a huge roll in the way your breath smells. Some of the obvious culprits that contribute to bad breath are coffee, alcohol and smelly foods like garlic, onions, and cheese. These are foods and beverages you should avoid or at least counteract right away.
Remedy: Snacking on fresh fruits and vegetables that promote good health can clean out bad bacteria, like apples, carrot and celery sticks. Prepare these before your trip, cut them up and store them in plastic baggies for easy access. The crunchier the better! Sorry neighbor, but I think you’d rather hear me crunch than smell bad breath.
DEHYDRATION
We usually reach for gum or mints when we notice bad breath, however, it could be that we need a glass of water instead. Dehydration reduces saliva production in the mouth, which can lead to excess growth of bacteria, which can lead to bad breath. Getting your recommended daily allowance of water keeps your mouth lubricated, which in turn keeps bacteria at bay and promotes good health all around. As a frequent traveler, I know that getting enough water can often be a challenge when you’re on the road.
Remedy: Always try to keep it front of mind, especially when you’re in spaces that can cause dehydration like on an airplane or in hot, humid and elevated climates. Buy the largest bottle of water you can to take on a long flight, after the security of course. I find that the airlines’ service just isn’t enough and it’s delivered in dribbles. Get a collapsible water bottle so you can fill it up on the go and pack it in your purse. When at places with water fill it up. For example, before you leave the hotel or restaurant, etc. Being mindful of it at all times rather than waiting until you’re thirsty is key.
A MORE SERIOUS MATTER
If you have constant bad breath, chances are you’re dealing with a medical issue and should contact your doctor and/or dentist. You could have gum disease, bronchitis, diabetes, a cold or flu amongst other things. Some of these conditions along with medications can cause dry mouth and dehydration and as stated earlier, it’s one of the causes of bad breath. Staying hydrated, eating healthy and seeing your doctor are all important in this case.
Remedy: If bad breath is persistent, SEE YOUR DOCTOR!
Do yourself and your fellow travelers a favor and don’t let travelers bad breath happen.
Yours truly,
Ja’Vonne Harley, The Traveling Culturati