Bad breath, also known as halitosis, can be an embarrassing problem to live with. Regardless of where it came from, it can have a negative impact on your self-esteem and social life. There are many causes of bad breath, including tooth decay and gum disease. Fortunately, there are also many solutions. Here are the major tips to eliminate bad breath.
Brushing your teeth twice daily
Proper brushing and flossing help fight bad breath by removing food particles from your mouth and preventing bacteria buildup. Consider using a tongue scraper in addition to your toothbrush if you want to remove germs and other debris from the surface of your tongue.
Flossing at least once a day
Having food stuck in between teeth or around the gums is the perfect recipe for bad breath. The bacteria that cause bad breath feed on lingering particles of food and expel foul odors as a byproduct. Flossing is the best way to eliminate these food particles and debris from areas between your teeth. Failing to floss can greatly increase your risk of bad breath in the future.
Brushing your tongue
The tongue can easily get neglected during oral hygiene routines because it’s harder to reach for some. However, the tongue is actually a major breeding ground for bacteria that causes bad breath and should be removed daily. Using a soft-bristled brush or a scraper designed just for this purpose can help clean the tongue effectively.
Plaque and food debris can stick to the surface of the tongue and cause odor while saliva has enzymes that remove odors from the air. When food particles remain on the tongue, they can trap bacteria and cause bad breath. A thorough brushing of the tongue should be done every time someone is brushing their teeth.
Adjusting your diet
Some foods can contribute to bad breath. Garlic and onions are classic offenders. They also cause stinky breath because they are broken down by your digestive acids. (Your mouth and stomach share some of the same enzymes.) When the food particles make their way down your throat, they can cause odor. Other foods that can cause your breath to smell include coffee, alcohol, and sugar. If you eat a lot of fresh veggies, fruits, and whole grains, you are less likely to have bad breath because the crunchy texture helps clean your teeth and gums.
It’s possible that you have bad breath because of a medical issue such as diabetes, digestive problems, or a sinus problem. If you are concerned about having bad breath, talk to your doctor. They can help you get on the right track to improve your breath.
If you’re looking for an experienced dentist in Redmond who can help you maintain your oral health, we welcome you to call our team at Wellness Centered Dentistry to schedule a consultation today!