Bad Breath
The mouth is teeming with bacteria, most of which have the sole purpose of preventing other disease-causing bacteria from thriving in the moist and warm environment. These bacteria live in the throat and on the tongue, not on the teeth; so brushing the teeth really only masks bad breath and prevents cavities. When the mouth does not get oxygenated, these bacteria produce sulfur compounds which cause the smell. The bacteria lose access to oxygen when you use alcohol-based mouthwashes, take certain medication, or sit with your mouth closed for a long time. Garlic and onion contain the same sulfur compounds, which is why eating them also gives your bad breath.
Scraping your tongue or simply brushing your teeth will not remove these sulfur compounds. The key is to keep your mouth oxygenated by drinking plenty of water and using an oral rinse which contains chlorine dioxide when you wake up and before you go to sleep. Chlorine dioxide helps neutralize the sulfur compounds. Parsley and celery are oxygen-rich vegetables and chewing on them will also help diminish bad breath. If the problem persists, go to your dentist.
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