Feeling embarrassed about your bad breath? No one wants to experience the feeling of others shying away because of a foul odor coming from the mouth. This is why it is essential that you adopt good oral hygiene habits to minimize the potential for this unfortunate smell. But if you want to know how to get rid of bad breath, a dentist is here to share a few tips you can use to avoid humiliation and instead, embrace a healthier smile.
What is the Reason For Bad Breath?
If you think the only reason bad breath occurs is because you decided to enjoy a few slices of garlicky pizza, you are wrong. Food is not the only culprit. While onions, garlic, and other similarly potent flavors can produce a foul odor, other, more potentially harmful reasons may be to blame, such as:
- Gum disease
- Dry mouth
- Bacterial accumulations on the tongue
- Unbrushed teeth
- Smoking
- Excessive mouth washing
While some of these might seem hard to believe, the truth is that your mouth is a haven for bad bacteria. When it accumulates over time, it will lead to an unpleasant odor that requires more aggressive treatment.
In situations where halitosis – severe bad breath – exists, professional cleanings and techniques must be incorporated to help address the smell.
How Can I Avoid Bad Breath?
If you want to show up at your next meeting or friendly gathering feeling more confident about your smile and your breath, make sure you are adopting these oral hygiene habits:
- Creating a routine – Every morning and night, make sure you are brushing your teeth with fluoridated toothpaste for two full minutes. You do not want to neglect your tongue or the roof of your mouth. Also, prepare to floss between teeth at least once each day, as food can become stuck. And don’t forget to rinse with an ADA-approved mouthwash.
- Visiting your dentist – Seeing a professional every six months will ensure that your breath remains fresh because of their ability to clear away hardened plaque and tartar – both of which can lead to gum disease, cavities, and bad breath.
- Drinking lots of water – Dry mouth stems from a lack of production on behalf of your salivary glands. When they are not functioning properly, your mouth can experience a build-up of bacteria. However, by drinking plenty of water, you can keep these glands working properly, flushing out anything that might affect your breath.
- Stop smoking – If you consider yourself to be a smoker, it is time to quit. Tobacco can lead to a dry mouth, creating a haven for bad bacteria. Not to mention, it leaves an unpleasant odor behind even after you are done with your cigarette.
Other ways to lower your risk of bad breath include eating sugarless gum and snacking on raw fruits and vegetables. Doing everything you can to keep your breath smelling great will ensure that you are welcomed no matter where you find yourself.
About the Author
Dr. John Ludu and his team at Devoted Family Dental are here to keep smiles healthy. When bad breath keeps you from seeking opportunities, you may wonder if there is anything that can be done to correct it. Fortunately, there are thanks to Dr. Ludu and our team at Devoted Family Dental. Using various cleaning instruments and providing helpful tips, we can make sure that you enjoy fresher breath the next time you go out in public. Contact us at (623) 444-6222 to learn how we can help.