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Mask Breath: Another Pitfall of the Pandemic

by | Dec 10, 2020 | Mask breath

Mask-breath

What is mask breath and how to deal with it?

Mask breath is a coined expression that has arisen as a result of the pandemic. Worldwide, people are wearing masks to follow healthcare guidelines and protect against the coronavirus. In fact, masks are everywhere, and “fashion masks” have even emerged. But it appears that no one foresaw the emergence of “mask breath.”

The Downside of Masks

Certainly, masks have been necessary, especially in certain situations. In fact, they have prevented many people from getting ill. However, mask breath, mentioned in The Irish News, is an unexpected result for some people who wear masks. When you exhale and your breath has trouble escaping the mask, it can cause a foul odor that has been dubbed “mask breath.”

Typically, when you exhale, your breath dissipates into the air in front of your face. However, when you’re wearing a mask, it goes up into your nostrils. For the 35 to 45 percent of people who suffer from halitosis, breathing in your own bad breath can be an unpleasant experience. To make matters worse, wearing a mask exacerbates the unpleasantness of bad breath.

What Causes Bad Breath?

Bacteria that live on gums and the tongue can release sulfurous compounds. Anyone who has smelled sulfur knows it has a foul odor (think of rotten eggs). Furthermore, the bacteria also harm the gums. In fact, they can eventually lead to tissue breakdown and loose teeth.

What Can You Do About Mask Breath?

There are a number of things you can do.

  • Invest in an electric toothbrush and make sure you fully clean between your teeth, brushing for two minutes, twice a day.
  • Purchase a water flosser to reach difficult areas between teeth and flush out food particles.
  • Floss between your teeth once a day.
  • Use a tongue scraper to get rid of bacteria that has formed on your tongue.
  • Rinse with a mouthwash that has activated chlorine dioxide. This will kill the bacteria releasing sulfur compounds.
  • Ensure regular dental cleaning visits.

Stay on Top of Your Dental Care

Good dental hygiene and routine teeth cleaning can help you deal with bad breath. At Hutto Hippo Family Dental we’re glad to answer your questions. Call (512) 806-7740 to make an appointment.