With the festive season in full swing, dentists across the UK are issuing a timely warning to partygoers about the surprising holiday treats that can lead to the most unpleasant breath. The experts have pinpointed the key culprits and shared crucial advice on how to keep your mouth fresh throughout the celebrations.
The Hidden Chemistry of Festive Foods
According to dental professionals, the problem often isn't just about strong-smelling foods, but how certain items alter the environment inside your mouth. Dr. Jonathan B. Levine, DMD, Founder of Smile House & GLO Science, explained to the Daily Mail that many festive foods cause bad breath due to chemical changes. He highlighted that dairy products like cheese are a major offender.
"Dairy proteins break down into sulfur compounds when oral bacteria digest them," Dr. Levine stated. "This is one of the main causes of persistent bad breath."
Sugary Treats and Acidic Drinks: A Double Threat
The warning extends to the sweet treats commonly found on holiday tables. Sugary desserts and sticky dried fruits like dates, figs, and raisins provide a feast for odour-producing bacteria. Dr. Levine noted that sugar lingering between teeth or near gums allows bacteria to thrive.
London-based Dr. Crystal Marruganti, DMD at Harley Street Dental Studio, reinforced this point, cautioning that even sugary mints used to freshen breath can backfire. "Sugary mints can have a drying effect, reducing saliva," she said. This reduction impairs the mouth's natural ability to cleanse itself of bad bacteria.
Starchy foods such as bread, stuffing, and crackers also pose a risk, as they quickly convert to simple sugars and increase mouth acidity, creating an ideal breeding ground for bad-breath bacteria.
Beverages are equally problematic. Alcohol, including champagne, wine, and cocktails, dries out the mouth by reducing saliva flow, allowing odour-causing bacteria to multiply. Dr. Levine added that wine and champagne are particularly acidic, further disrupting the oral microbiome. Dr. Marruganti agreed, noting that sugary or fizzy drinks can have a similar effect.
Expert Tips for Fresh Holiday Breath
The dentists provided clear strategies to combat festive halitosis. Dr. Levine recommended alternating each alcoholic drink with water and using an alkalinising mouthwash afterwards to neutralise acidity and support saliva production.
"Hydration also matters more than people realise," he emphasised. "Saliva is the body’s natural defence against bad breath. When the mouth is dry, bacteria multiply faster." He advised drinking water throughout the day and breathing through your nose to maintain moisture.
Fundamental dental hygiene remains paramount. "Brushing and flossing are essential, but tongue cleaning is often overlooked," Dr. Levine said. "A large percentage of odour-causing bacteria live on the tongue. Cleaning it regularly can dramatically reduce bad breath, especially during indulgent holiday eating."
By being mindful of these dietary pitfalls and following the experts' simple steps, you can enjoy the festive feasts without worrying about your breath.
