Chances are we have all experienced bad breath occasionally, especially when we first wake up in the morning after a full night’s sleep —which is totally normal. However, around 30 to 50% of the people worldwide have chronic bad breath problems, and many individuals might not even be aware of it.3,4
Having bad breath can have a negative effect on a person’s social life, resulting in embarrassment, insecurity and even social avoidance. For these reasons, people are using products searching for a remedy to bad breath. Nevertheless, a lot of these assure to eliminate bad breath but may only work for a short while by masking the smell with nice aromas —like some mints do!2,3,5
These odour-masking products are a great solution for transient bad breath problems —such as those caused by eating spicy foods or cigarette smoking.3 But, when dealing with chronic halitosis, they just won’t cut it.
Scientists have demonstrated that around 90% of the times, the main source of bad breath are volatile —vaporous— sulphuric compounds (VSCs) produced by bacteria in the mouth. The rest can be attributed to non-oral causes like gastrointestinal diseases, hepatic diseases, haematological or endocrine system disorders and metabolic conditions.3
It has also been stated by research that toothbrushing alone is not enough to eliminate oral malodour in a significant way. So, essentially, a good and thorough oral hygiene routine that neutralises these smelly compounds is necessary to attack the root cause of bad breath.6
Understanding VSCs and bad breath
Several studies agree that the dorsum of the tongue is the primary source of VSC since, in this area, accumulation of bacteria and food remnants is favoured. It is also known that plaque, periodontal diseases, faulty restorations and caries can further contribute to bad breath.2,3
There are around 150 different molecules identified in human breath. However, the smelliest compounds known are hydrogen sulphide and methyl mercaptan. Studies show that there is a direct relationship between the levels of these two molecules and the foulness of bad breath.7,8
Therefore, the treatment of bad breath should mainly be focused on neutralising these smelly sulphur compounds (VSCs).2
How to get rid of bad breath
To successfully treat halitosis, an appropriate diagnosis, professional therapy, and good oral hygiene, including tooth brushing and tongue cleaning, along with the use of an effective mouthwash is required.2
CB12 mouthwash contains an effective formula that combines the powers of chlorhexidine and zinc, creating a synergistic effect that counteracts bad breath for up to 12 hours7,9. Thanks to their specific formulation, CB12 products —including CB12 Boost and Spray —can be used safely daily without the need to worry about having a metallic aftertaste nor staining your teeth!
Chlorhexidine (CHX) is known to be a strong denaturing substance, and it is considered the most effective antiplaque and anti-gingivitis agent. CHX can split disulphide bonds, increasing their affinity to zinc. Thanks to this, zinc can easily bind to these sulphur gases and transform them into odourless compounds. The combination and collaboration of these different action mechanisms help to provide a protracted effect of CB12.9,10
For more information about bad breath prevention and treatment, click here.
Consult your dentist if you have the following signs or symptoms11:
- Bad breath that does not go away after treating with a complete oral hygiene routine
- Gums that are painful, bleeding, or swollen
- You have a toothache or problems with your dentures