Checking Your Bad Breath Level: Good? Bad? Really Bad?

There are numerous ways of determining whether or not you have bad breath.

The easiest method I've discovered, is also the most universally known, breathe into your cupped hand(s). You're automatically able to smell the odor as it comes out of your mouth. This can help you determine the severeness of your breath.

 Another great way, although not very practical in a more public setting, is to check your saliva, which also has an odor. To do this, you will lick your wrist or the back of your hand slightly. 

Wait a few seconds and then sniff your wrist. If you don’t smell anything, then you should be fine. If you do, take the necessary action to get rid of your bad breath.

You may also use a spoon or a tongue scraper to test your breath.  Scrape your tongue slowly in a front to back motion. Smell the area in question on the spoon or the scraper. If it is a foul smell, then you may have chronic bad breath (halitosis).

Check to see if you have any black spots on your teeth.  If you do, it could be a sign that you may have bad breath(due to bacteria). It might also indicate potential tooth and gum problems.

Halitosis, is of course chronic bad breath. Halitosis is a serious problem due to its continuous reappearance after taking actions to get rid of it. If you've tried everything and your bad breath just wont go away. It is highly recommended you visit your local dentist for help. There's a chance they could solve in five minutes what you've struggled with for five years.

Oral thrush:What it is, and how to eliminate it

What is it?

Oral thrush is a very common infection in infants that causes irritation in and around the baby's mouth. It is caused by the overgrowth of the yeast candida albicans.
Most people naturally have candida in their mouths and digestive tracts.   The amount of candida in a person's body is controlled by a healthy immune system and some "good" bacteria. If the immune system is weakened (due to an illness or medicines like chemotherapy), the candida in a person's digestive tract can overgrow and lead to an infection. The same can happen to infants whose immune systems are not yet fully developed.

What does it look like?

A person with oral thrush might develop cracked skin in the corners of their mouth, as well as whitish patches on the lips, tongue, or inside the cheeks that look similar to cottage cheese.

How do I treat it?

There are many different natural treatments they have been proven to offer relief, but as with all natural cures, nothing is 100% and it is still highly advised you see a doctor.
    One oral thrush home remedy that can provide relief is the use of a saltwater rinse. Three times a day rinse 1/2-teaspoon salt in a cup of water in the mouth after eating.
Antiseptic mouthwash also works well as another bacteria killing remedy for oral thrush. Swab patches of thrush in the mouth with an antiseptic mouthwash.
  Garlic has anti-bacterial properties, while Vitamin C and Vitamin E can be used to boost the immune system. Combined remedies of eating raw garlic and taking vitamin supplements can help fight off an oral thrush infection. Garlic can be taken in supplement form if necessary.

Important Note

 Be sure to boil or disinfect everything that touches the mouth, such as eating utensils. This will kill bacteria and help prevent spreading thrush to other members of the household.
 Again thrush can become very serious, so if you feel overwhelmed It is highly advisable to go see a doctor.