Rising Bad Breath Awareness During Year-End
As the year comes to an end, festive celebrations often lead to changes in lifestyle that may negatively affect oral health. A recent study by I-ne Co., Ltd., an Osaka-based oral beauty brand known for its product line BEAURAL, surveyed 423 individuals aged 30 to 50 who regularly consume alcohol. The findings indicate a troubling increase in bad breath among this demographic, attributed to heightened drinking habits and stress during the holiday season.
Key Findings of the Research
One striking statistic from the survey reveals that a significant
66.5% of respondents reported an increase in their drinking habits during year-end festivities. In a corresponding question,
50.6% admitted they are more conscious of their bad breath the morning after increased alcohol consumption. Additionally, nearly
48.9% acknowledged feeling more stressed during the year-end, with
40.7% admitting that such stress also contributed to their concerns about bad breath.
This alarming trend suggests that many individuals may not recognize the link between their holiday drinking habits, rising stress levels, and poor oral hygiene, contributing to increased awareness of halitosis during this season.
How Alcohol and Stress Impact Oral Health
Alcohol consumption has well-documented diuretic effects, leading to dehydration and reduced saliva production—two major contributors to dry mouth and bacterial growth. Similarly, heightened stress results in sympathetic nervous system activation, which decreases saliva flow, further exacerbating bad breath issues. The accumulation of plaque due to inadequate oral hygiene practices compounds these effects, making proactive oral care measures essential, particularly during this busy time.
The 'Toothbrushing Cancellation' Phenomenon
The survey also explored the phenomenon of