When a cigar is enjoyed, it often leaves behind a persistent, unpleasant sensation known as “cigar mouth,” which is a combination of a lingering, stale odor, a bitter taste, and significant oral dryness. This effect is caused by the deposition of smoke particles, oils, and tar onto the mucous membranes, teeth, and tongue, where they mix with bacteria to create volatile sulfur compounds responsible for the smell. Addressing the problem requires a two-pronged approach: neutralizing the immediate residue and counteracting the underlying physiological effect of reduced saliva flow.
Quick Fixes for Odor and Taste
Physically remove surface residue immediately after smoking. Begin by aggressively brushing the teeth using a specialized toothpaste formulated for smokers, which often contains mild abrasives like hydrated silica or diatomaceous earth to polish away surface stains and tar. These formulations frequently include odor-neutralizing compounds such as zinc chloride, which chemically bind to the sulfur molecules causing the unpleasant smell.
Physical removal of residue from the tongue is equally important, as this highly porous surface traps significant amounts of odor-causing bacteria and smoke particles. Use a dedicated tongue scraper or cleaner to gently move from the back of the tongue toward the tip, dislodging the white or yellow film. Follow this routine with a thorough rinse using an alcohol-free mouthwash, as alcohol can exacerbate the feeling of dryness that contributes to lingering odor.
Counteracting Dry Mouth and Lingering Residue
The primary reason cigar odor persists is the induced state of dry mouth (xerostomia), because saliva is the mouth’s natural cleansing agent. Cigar smoke contains compounds that temporarily reduce salivary flow, allowing odor-producing bacteria to multiply unchecked.
Drinking plain water consistently before, during, and after smoking helps wash away debris and maintain baseline moisture levels. To actively encourage the salivary glands, chew sugar-free gum or suck on lozenges, particularly those containing xylitol, which acts as a salivary stimulant and also inhibits the growth of bacteria. For more intense dryness, over-the-counter saliva substitutes are available as sprays, rinses, or gels.
These specialized products use moisturizing ingredients like carboxymethylcellulose or hydroxyethyl cellulose to temporarily coat and lubricate the oral tissues. Applying a saliva substitute provides immediate, though temporary, relief from the dry, sticky feeling and helps to dilute the concentration of lingering smoke compounds.
Dental Maintenance and Prevention
Regular professional dental cleanings are important to remove deeply embedded tar and nicotine stains that trap odor molecules and cannot be fully removed by brushing alone. The sticky residue of tar and the oxidation of nicotine turn surface enamel yellow or brown over time, which a hygienist can address with specialized tools and polishing.
Beyond professional care, modifying dietary habits can support the fight against dryness. Avoiding beverages high in caffeine or alcohol, especially around the time of smoking, is beneficial because these substances are diuretics and can further dehydrate the mouth.
Ultimately, the most effective way to eliminate cigar mouth and the associated risk of deep staining is to reduce the frequency of cigar use or eliminate it entirely.