Bad breath, medically known as halitosis, is an unpleasant odor emitting from your mouth. It can be unpleasant for those around you, and it can also affect your confidence. Bad breath can be caused by a variety of factors. While oftentimes it is a temporary condition, bad breath can also be a chronic problem. If you have bad breath, read on to learn a few helpful tips.
Brush your teeth after you eat
The first thing you should do if you experience bad breath is to brush your teeth after eating a meal or at least twice a day. It is important to clean food particles from your teeth, gums, and tongue as soon as possible.
Food particles can cause bacteria to multiply in your mouth, which can produce a bad smell. After brushing your teeth, you should rinse your mouth out with water and then floss to remove any remaining food debris. Rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash can also help kill bacteria and wash away odor-causing substances.
Floss at least once a day
Proper dental care starts with the basics – brushing and flossing. Plaque bacteria build up on teeth and between the teeth throughout the day. If you don’t remove plaque with regular brushing and flossing, it will produce acids that attack tooth enamel and cause cavities. In addition, these acids cause an unpleasant odor in your mouth. So, ensure that you floss your teeth at least once a day, preferably at night.
Brush your tongue
A tongue scraper can be used to gently clean the surface of your tongue and remove bacteria that cause bad breath. Hold the scraper at the back of your tongue and make a scraping motion down towards the tip. Repeat this process at least twice a day for a healthy mouth and fresh breath.
Clean dentures or dental appliances
Your dentist may recommend using special cleaners to eliminate odor-causing bacteria from your dentures or dental appliances. Be sure to use products designed specifically to clean dentures, as toothpaste can damage the appliance. Rinse your appliance with water before and after you brush it to remove any debris from the brush. Allow your appliance to dry before you put it back in to see better and feel more comfortable.
Avoid dry mouth
A dry mouth can be caused by certain medications such as antihistamines; alcohol; tobacco; and sleeping with your mouth open. It can also be a symptom of a disease, such as a yeast infection in the mouth or diabetes. If left untreated, dry mouth can lead to issues with your oral health, including bad breath and a higher risk for tooth decay. Drinking water can help rinse away food particles causing bacteria to grow in the oral cavity. Other things you can do are chew sugar-free gum, eat healthier foods, and decrease your caffeine intake.
Adjust your diet
There are certain foods that may temporarily cause bad breath. For example, onions and garlic leave a lingering smell that can be transferred to your breath because they can’t be fully digested by the stomach and intestines. Dairy products such as milk and cheese contain proteins that can tend to stick to the surface of your teeth and gums and cause odorous breath.
Try to limit the consumption of these foods if you suffer from chronic bad breath caused by bacteria.
Regularly get a new toothbrush
You should replace your toothbrush every three months or sooner if the bristles start getting frayed. Over time, bacteria build up on a toothbrush and can cause bad breath. And toothbrushes make an excellent medium for growing all kinds of nasty germs too! Make sure to throw away your toothbrush after you’ve had a cold to prevent the spread of germs from your mouth to your family’s toothbrushes at home.
Schedule regular dental checkups
Most people are surprised to learn that their oral health is directly linked to the health of the rest of their bodies. When things go wrong in your mouth, they can be a sign of a bigger problem elsewhere in your body. Regular checkups with your dentist can help catch any potential problems before they start affecting your overall health. Your dentist can check for signs of oral cancer and gum disease, as well as make sure you don’t have cavities. Scheduling regular cleanings can also reduce your risk for other health issues, such as heart disease and diabetes, by helping you maintain a healthier mouth. Make sure to schedule your next appointment with us today!