7 Dental Tips for Beating Bad Breath

Everyone gets bad breath from time to time.

The medical term for bad breath is halitosis, and it can result in plenty of everyday activities.

From poor dental health habits to using tobacco, bad breath is associated with unhealthy lifestyle habits.

Tips to prevent bad breath

1. Brush your teeth

The first and easiest way to avoid bad breath is to brush your teeth twice a day. This ensures all food debris and plaque are removed before they can deteriorate in your mouth. Brushing will also protect your teeth from harmful bacteria that can cause decay and infection.

2. Do not forget the tongue

Brushing your tongue can help remove any leftover residue. This is where bacteria thrive since it is a commonly forgotten area to clean when brushing. If you are serious about killing bad breath, you can also invest in a tongue scraper to help alongside your brushing routine.

3. Mouthwash

Although a mouth rinse will only mask the odor that is associated with bad breath, it is a way to remove bad breath in an emergency. For those who are fond of at-home remedies, try mixing water with a few drops of peppermint oil as it can suppress the growth of bacteria that causes bad breath. Avoid mouth rinses with alcohol since they can dry out and irritate your mouth.

4. Stop using tobacco products

One habit to avoid when attempting to remove bad breath is the use of tobacco products. Tobacco tends to dry out your mouth and can leave an unpleasant, lingering scent. Also, cigarettes and chewing tobacco will stain your tooth enamel, leading to yellow, unhealthy teeth. If you needed another reason to quit, remember that tobacco use increases your chances of developing cancer.

5. Drink your water

Drinking water is not only good for hydrating your system, but also can help avoid dry mouth and keeping odor under control. Water washes away food particles and bacteria. It also encourages saliva production, which keeps bacteria at bay.

6. Eat right

It is no secret that certain foods will affect your breath. Certain items, like onions and garlic, will cause short-term bad breath.

In general, try eating a piece of sugarless candy or gum to help stimulate saliva flow. Like hydration, this will help wash away any bacteria and food particles in your mouth. When you want a snack, opt for a carrot or apple. These healthy options are good for you and do not have immediate effects on your breath.

7. See the dentist

Last but not least, make sure to see a dentist regularly. Having your teeth and mouth professionally cleaned can do wonders for your smile and your breath. Moreover, your dentist may find something that you never noticed. They can also recommend products to keep your breath under control.

When was your last dentist appointment?

If you have not seen a dentist in some time, call our office to make an appointment. All it takes is one short trip to reduce bad breath and improve your health.

Request an appointment here: https://www.gablesexceptionaldentistry.com or call Gables Exceptional Dentistry at (305) 203-4132 for an appointment in our Coral Gables office.