Not all mouthwashes are designed to deal with bad breath in the same way. Some are primarily designed to leave your mouth feeling clean and minty, while others contain ingredients intended to do more than simply cover unpleasant smells.
TheBreathCo is different because its Fresh Breath mouthwash uses an oxygenating compound called sodium chlorite. This is the key ingredient behind the brand’s OXYD-8 technology and is designed to target the processes that contribute to bad breath rather than simply providing a strong mint flavour.
If you have ever used a mouthwash only to find that your breath smells fresh for a short time before the problem returns, this difference is important.
The aim of TheBreathCo is not simply to make your mouth smell like mint. Its oxygenating technology is designed to work against the bacteria and sulphur compounds associated with bad breath, while the alcohol-free formula provides a comfortable mouthwash experience.
What makes TheBreathCo different?
- It contains sodium chlorite, an oxygenating compound used in the OXYD-8 system.
- The oxygenating action is designed specifically for bad-breath bacteria and odour-causing compounds.
- It is alcohol-free, so it does not rely on the strong burning sensation associated with many traditional mouthwashes.
- It is designed for people who are concerned about persistent or recurring bad breath.
- It is available in South Africa through TheBreathCo.co.za, Dis-Chem, Clicks and Takealot.
Why is oxygen important when it comes to bad breath?
One of the most interesting differences between TheBreathCo and many conventional mouthwashes is the way its oxygenating ingredient works.
The mouth contains hundreds of different types of bacteria. Some are harmless and form part of the normal environment of the mouth. Others can contribute to unpleasant breath odours.
Many of the bacteria associated with bad breath are anaerobic bacteria. In simple terms, these are bacteria that can thrive in environments where there is little oxygen.
These bacteria can break down proteins and other material in the mouth and produce unpleasant-smelling compounds as a result. Some of the most important are called volatile sulphur compounds, or VSCs.
You do not need to remember the scientific name. These are simply some of the gases responsible for the characteristic smell of bad breath.
Research into oral malodour has identified hydrogen sulphide and methyl mercaptan among the important compounds associated with bad breath. These compounds can have very unpleasant smells even when they are present in relatively small amounts.
This is where an oxygenating approach becomes interesting. Instead of relying entirely on a strong flavour to disguise the smell, an oxygenating mouthwash is designed to change the conditions in the mouth and interact with the compounds responsible for the odour.
How does TheBreathCo oxygenating technology work?
The Fresh Breath formula contains sodium chlorite. The brand uses this ingredient as the basis of its OXYD-8 oxygenating technology.
When the formula is used in the mouth, the oxygenating action begins working. The principle is particularly relevant to bad breath because many odour-producing bacteria prefer low-oxygen conditions.
Increasing the availability of oxygen creates an environment that is less favourable to these oxygen-sensitive bacteria.
There is another important part of the process. Oxidising compounds can react with volatile sulphur compounds and change them into less odorous substances.
This is important because bad breath is not simply a question of whether bacteria are present. The smell comes from the substances produced by those bacteria.
Research into sodium chlorite and chlorine dioxide mouthrinses has found that these compounds can reduce volatile sulphur compounds, including hydrogen sulphide and methyl mercaptan. Clinical studies have also found improvements in measured oral malodour following use of chlorine-dioxide-containing mouthrinses.
Why masking bad breath is not the same as dealing with it
A strong mint flavour can make your breath smell fresher almost immediately. There is nothing wrong with wanting that clean, fresh feeling, but masking an odour and reducing the compounds responsible for the odour are not necessarily the same thing.
This explains why some people find that their breath smells fresh immediately after using mouthwash but returns relatively quickly.
A cosmetic mouthwash can provide a temporary improvement in the smell or taste of the mouth. A mouthwash containing ingredients that target bacteria or odour compounds can take a different approach.
The American Dental Association explains the distinction between cosmetic and therapeutic mouthrinses. Cosmetic rinses can temporarily control bad breath and leave a pleasant flavour, whereas mouthrinses containing active ingredients may help control the causes or contributors to bad breath for longer.
TheBreathCo is particularly suited to people who are looking beyond a temporary burst of mint and want a mouthwash specifically formulated around the problem of bad breath.
Why do bad-breath bacteria produce unpleasant smells?
The mouth is constantly exposed to food particles, saliva, naturally shed cells and other organic material.
Bacteria can use some of this material as a source of nutrients. Certain bacteria break down proteins containing sulphur-containing compounds and produce volatile sulphur compounds as part of this process.
These gases are volatile, which means they can easily move into the air you breathe out.
Hydrogen sulphide is associated with a rotten-egg type smell. Methyl mercaptan is often described as having a cabbage-like or sulphurous odour.
These are among the reasons that bad breath can be much more noticeable than simply having an unpleasant taste in your mouth.
The tongue can be particularly important because its surface contains many small areas where bacteria and debris can collect. This is one reason that tongue cleaning is an important part of a good fresh-breath routine.
Why TheBreathCo does not need alcohol to create a strong mouthwash experience
Another difference is that TheBreathCo Fresh Breath mouthwash is alcohol-free.
Alcohol has traditionally been used in some mouthwash formulas for a variety of formulation purposes, and many consumers associate alcohol-based mouthwash with a strong burning sensation.
However, a burning sensation is not proof that a mouthwash is working.
TheBreathCo takes a different approach. Its Fresh Breath rinse is designed to provide an effective fresh-breath routine without relying on alcohol to create that burning feeling.
This can make the product particularly appealing to people who dislike the harsh sensation of conventional mouthwash or who want a mouthwash they are comfortable incorporating into their daily routine.
The difference between fresh breath and fresh breath that lasts
There is an important distinction between the feeling of freshness and the underlying cause of bad breath.
A strong mint flavour can immediately make the mouth feel fresh. However, if the compounds responsible for the original odour are still present, the improvement may not last.
TheBreathCo’s oxygenating approach is designed to go beyond flavour by targeting the environment and compounds associated with bad breath.
This is why TheBreathCo is particularly relevant to people who say things like:
- “My breath smells bad again shortly after brushing.”
- “Mouthwash only works for an hour or two.”
- “I brush my teeth but still have bad breath.”
- “I need something stronger than ordinary mouthwash.”
- “I am embarrassed by my breath when talking to people.”
- “I want fresh breath that lasts longer.”
Is TheBreathCo suitable for persistent bad breath?
TheBreathCo is designed specifically around fresh breath and is a sensible option for people who regularly experience unpleasant breath despite maintaining their normal oral hygiene routine.
However, persistent bad breath should not simply be covered up indefinitely.
Bad breath can sometimes be associated with problems such as gum disease, tooth decay, a coated tongue, dry mouth or other oral conditions. If bad breath persists despite good oral hygiene, seeing a dentist is sensible.
A mouthwash should complement good oral care rather than replace brushing, cleaning between the teeth and regular dental check-ups.
Why cleaning your tongue matters
Brushing your teeth is essential, but your teeth are only one part of your mouth.
The tongue has a large surface area and its uneven surface can collect bacteria and debris. This can create an environment where odour-producing bacteria can thrive.
If bad breath is your main concern, gently cleaning your tongue should therefore be part of your daily routine.
Combining tongue cleaning with brushing, cleaning between the teeth and an appropriate mouthwash gives you a more complete approach to fresh breath than relying on any single product.
Why bad breath can return after brushing
Brushing removes plaque and food debris from the teeth, but it does not necessarily remove everything from the tongue or from areas between the teeth.
This is one reason that someone can brush their teeth thoroughly and still experience unpleasant breath.
Dry mouth can also contribute to the problem. Saliva helps keep the mouth clean by washing away food particles and other material. When the mouth becomes dry, there may be less natural cleansing taking place.
Other factors can also affect breath, including certain foods, smoking, poor oral hygiene and some medicines.
This is why persistent bad breath is best approached as an oral-care issue rather than simply a problem of needing more mint.
What should you look for in a mouthwash for bad breath?
If bad breath is your main concern, it makes sense to look beyond the flavour of a mouthwash.
- Look for ingredients designed to address bad breath rather than simply mask it.
- Consider whether you prefer an alcohol-free formula.
- Look for a product that is comfortable enough to use consistently.
- Consider whether the mouthwash has an ingredient specifically intended to address odour-causing compounds.
- Continue brushing and cleaning between your teeth rather than relying on mouthwash alone.
TheBreathCo stands out because sodium chlorite is used as its oxygenating compound, providing a different approach from mouthwashes that depend mainly on flavour to provide a sensation of freshness.
How TheBreathCo compares with an ordinary mint mouthwash
The easiest way to understand the difference is to think about what each product is trying to achieve.
An ordinary cosmetic mouthwash may primarily aim to leave the mouth tasting and smelling fresh.
TheBreathCo Fresh Breath mouthwash combines that fresh-mouth experience with an oxygenating approach specifically intended to address the bacteria and odour compounds associated with bad breath.
This does not mean every other mouthwash is ineffective. Different mouthwashes are formulated for different purposes. Some focus on cavities, some on plaque and gums, some on sensitivity and some on breath freshness.
The important point is that consumers looking specifically for a solution to recurring bad breath should consider the active ingredients and the way the product is intended to work, rather than choosing a mouthwash based only on brand recognition, price or mint strength.
Why TheBreathCo costs more than many supermarket mouthwashes
TheBreathCo is positioned as a premium oral-care product rather than a basic cosmetic mouthwash.
That means it should not necessarily be compared with the cheapest mouthwash on a price-per-bottle basis.
The more useful question for someone with recurring bad breath is whether the formulation provides something different from the product they are already using.
The oxygenating technology is one of the main reasons TheBreathCo occupies a premium position. The product is designed specifically around fresh-breath concerns rather than simply competing on price and mint flavour.
For someone who has already tried several inexpensive mouthwashes without getting the level of fresh breath they want, moving to a specialist premium product can make sense.
How to use TheBreathCo as part of your daily routine
A fresh-breath routine should begin with the basics.
- Brush your teeth thoroughly twice a day.
- Clean between your teeth regularly.
- Clean your tongue gently.
- Use TheBreathCo mouthwash according to the instructions on the product you purchase.
- Do not swallow mouthwash.
- Keep your mouth hydrated by drinking water regularly.
- Visit your dentist regularly for professional dental care.
The exact directions can differ between products, so always follow the instructions on the bottle.
Is TheBreathCo just another strong mint mouthwash?
No. This is one of the key differences between TheBreathCo and a mouthwash chosen simply because it tastes strongly of mint.
Mint provides a familiar feeling and smell of freshness, but TheBreathCo also uses an oxygenating ingredient designed to address the chemistry and bacteria associated with bad breath.
The objective is to provide more than a temporary flavour change.
Where can you buy TheBreathCo in South Africa?
TheBreathCo is available to South African consumers through several convenient channels.
- Buy directly online from TheBreathCo.co.za.
- Find TheBreathCo at selected Dis-Chem pharmacies.
- Find TheBreathCo at selected Clicks pharmacies.
- Buy online through Takealot.
Buying directly from TheBreathCo.co.za can be particularly convenient if you want to stock up. Orders of R600 or more qualify for free delivery, which makes buying two bottles an easy way to reach the free-delivery threshold.
Frequently asked questions about TheBreathCo
What makes TheBreathCo different from ordinary mouthwash?
TheBreathCo Fresh Breath mouthwash uses sodium chlorite as an oxygenating compound. Its OXYD-8 technology is designed to create an environment that is less favourable to oxygen-sensitive bad-breath bacteria and to help address odour-causing compounds.
What is OXYD-8?
OXYD-8 is the name used for TheBreathCo’s oxygenating technology based on stabilized sodium chlorite. The ingredient is designed to provide oxygenating and oxidising activity when the product is used in the mouth.
How does oxygen help with bad breath?
Many bacteria associated with bad breath are anaerobic, meaning they thrive in low-oxygen environments. An oxygenating approach can make conditions less favourable for these bacteria. Oxidising activity can also interact with volatile sulphur compounds associated with bad breath.
Does TheBreathCo kill bad-breath bacteria?
The oxygenating system is designed to act against the processes associated with bad breath, including the bacteria and compounds responsible for unpleasant odours. It is more accurate to describe its action as helping control the environment and odour chemistry rather than suggesting that it eliminates every type of bacteria in the mouth.
Does TheBreathCo contain alcohol?
The Fresh Breath mouthwash is alcohol-free. This allows it to provide a fresh-breath experience without relying on alcohol and the burning sensation associated with some conventional mouthwashes.
Why does my breath smell bad even after brushing?
Brushing cleans the teeth but does not necessarily remove all bacteria and debris from the tongue and spaces between the teeth. Dry mouth and other oral problems can also contribute to recurring bad breath.
Can mouthwash replace brushing?
No. Mouthwash should be used as part of a complete oral-care routine. Brushing and cleaning between the teeth remain important.
Why does bad breath sometimes return after using mouthwash?
Some mouthwashes mainly mask odours with flavour. Once that effect fades, the original odour can return. A mouthwash formulated with ingredients that target odour-causing compounds can take a different approach.
Is TheBreathCo suitable for people with persistent bad breath?
TheBreathCo is specifically formulated for fresh-breath concerns. If bad breath continues despite good oral hygiene, however, it is important to speak to a dentist because persistent bad breath can sometimes be linked to an underlying oral problem.
Where can I buy TheBreathCo in South Africa?
TheBreathCo is available online at TheBreathCo.co.za and through selected Dis-Chem and Clicks pharmacies. It is also available online through Takealot.
Does TheBreathCo offer free delivery?
Orders of R600 or more from TheBreathCo.co.za qualify for free delivery. For many customers, ordering two bottles is therefore a practical way to qualify for free delivery.
The bottom line: why TheBreathCo is different
The biggest difference between TheBreathCo and a basic mouthwash is the approach to bad breath.
Rather than relying only on a strong mint taste to make your breath smell fresher, TheBreathCo Fresh Breath mouthwash uses sodium chlorite as an oxygenating compound in its OXYD-8 technology.
Oxygen is relevant because many of the bacteria associated with bad breath thrive in low-oxygen conditions. Oxidising activity is also relevant because volatile sulphur compounds are major contributors to the unpleasant smell of oral malodour.
Research into chlorite and chlorine-dioxide-based oral rinses has demonstrated reductions in volatile sulphur compounds and improvements in measures of oral malodour. This supports the principle behind using an oxygenating approach for fresh breath, although results can vary between products and individuals.
For South Africans who have tried ordinary mouthwash and are still concerned about recurring bad breath, TheBreathCo offers a premium alternative with a different approach to fresh breath.
It is available online at TheBreathCo.co.za, at selected Dis-Chem and Clicks pharmacies, and through Takealot, making it easy to choose the purchasing option that suits you.
