Teens who fear bad breath are less likely to smoke

Many investigations have been conducted into the reasons that teens take up smoking, but what keeps them from trying tobacco? A study appearing in the Journal of Public Health Dentistry found that one of the factors that keeps adolescents from trying cigarettes is the idea that they lead to bad breath.

They do, of course. Countless public health organizations, including the American Dental Association (ADA), emphasize that smoking is associated with halitosis, not to mention gum disease, tooth decay, hypertension, pulmonary problems and cancer.

In the new study, researchers determined that, while peer pressure and binge drinking encouraged teens to smoke, the idea that tobacco causes bad breath and other health problems often swayed adolescents away from trying cigarettes.

A similar study, published in the Journal of the ADA, found that young adults who do not floss often find the encouragement they need in messages that stress the effect unflossed teeth have on oral odor, dental health and social standing.

By using specialty breath fresheners in conjunction with daily brushing and flossing, individuals who suffer from chronic bad breath may be able to find some relief. Even smokers can sweeten their breath this way, although simply kicking the habit can go a long way toward reducing halitosis.