Bad breath, or halitosis, is a condition that no one wants to have. Despite brushing and flossing every day, bad breath happens to everyone at times. Luckily, there are several ways you can improve your halitosis. If simple methods do not work, you should schedule an appointment with your doctor to find out if it is a symptom of an underlying condition.
Many causes of halitosis are preventable and easily treated. Halitosis is caused by many factors, including poor oral hygiene, a dry mouth and certain foods. People can fend off halitosis by developing good oral health habits and making changes to their diets. Here are four daily tips for managing bad breath.
Brushing teeth properly is an effective way of fighting against bad breath. Brushing teeth twice a day will help whisk away odors. It is important to cover all the areas in the mouth. This involves brushing all surfaces of the teeth, including the inside portion of the teeth near the tongue and palate and the gumline. To eliminate bad breath, a person should brush the entire tongue surface where bacteria tend to linger after brushing the teeth and gumline. The tongue gets a great deal of bacteria buildup, which can contribute to bad breath.
Flossing is an important component of good oral health. Flossing removes the bacteria and plaque buildup from between the teeth that toothbrushes usually cannot get rid of. This should be done at least once a day. Flossing also rids the mouth of debris and food particles. If these are left between teeth, they will rot, which smells foul.
One problem that can cause halitosis or make it worse is having a dry mouth. It occurs when there is not enough saliva in the mouth. Saliva lubricates and cleanses the mouth and helps flush out the bad bacteria. Dry mouth causes bad breath because food particles remain trapped in the mouth, and they eventually rot and cause an unpleasant smell when someone exhales.
Drinking plenty of water is recommended. A person should carry a water bottle and take sips frequently. It is advisable to avoid acidic beverages such as soda, orange juice and any drink that contains phosphoric or citric acid. Dry mouth and acid together is a breeding ground for dental cavities.
Chewing sugar-free gum and sucking sugarless candies can stimulate saliva production. Using sugar-free products is recommended because sugar can help feed bacteria, which will make bad breath worse once the gum is gone. Sugar in gum may also cause tooth decay. Artificial saliva prescribed by a dentist can help moisten the mouth and reduce the risk of bad breath.
People can benefit from choosing foods carefully. Certain foods are naturally harsh on the breath. Pungent seasonings such as vinegar and garlic can linger after meals, so these foods should be eaten sparingly. Avoiding sticky, sugary foods that linger on the teeth for a long time is also recommended.
You do not have to suffer from halitosis any longer. By brushing and flossing daily, maintaining adequate saliva in the mouth and choosing food carefully, you can keep your breath fresh. Regularly visiting your general dentistry is also recommended. These tips will assist you in managing and eliminating your experience with halitosis.
Request an appointment here: https://www.arcdentistry.com or call Arc Advanced Dentistry & Cosmetics at (516) 301-9038 for an appointment in our Long Beach office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Bad Breath in Long Beach, NY.
Emergency dentistry for a root canal is sometimes the only way to relieve your pain. Some patients may have a root canal scheduled for a future date, but they find themselves in severe pain at an inconvenient time because of tooth pain. There may even be times when a patient may not realize they need…
Dental bonding and teeth whitening are common dental procedures that improve the appearance of your smile. However, some patients are concerned that their teeth may not have the same shade after teeth whitening, particularly if they have had dental bonding on one or more teeth. This review helps patients deal with this concern. Understanding the difference…
Wondering if a dental cleaning helps prevent gum disease? Preventive dentistry, including routine dental cleanings, is essential to having a healthy mouth because it helps patients avoid cavities, enamel wear, and gum disease. Therefore, regular dental cleanings are crucial to a dental patient's oral health.Signing up for a dental cleaning on a regular basis is…
A family dentist serves as the front line of defense for oral health and preventive care. They can see patients from childhood all the way through their lives, allowing for a level of continued care, attention, and personal knowledge that is unmatched among other types of dental offices. If you are considering what kind of…
An infected tooth is a very serious dental emergency, and you should have it treated…
Understanding the difference between dental bonding and teeth whitening and how the treatment process works…
Undergoing routine dental cleanings is necessary to prevent the accumulation of harmful bacteria responsible for…
Family dentists typically focus on preventive care to stop big problems while they are still…
The right cosmetic dentist can improve your smile and dental function at the same time.
A regular dental cleaning is vital for maintaining optimal oral health. While many people understand…
