6 Tips from Your Dentist to Stop Bad Breath

Did your favorite Italian dish have too much garlic? Now, you are left with foul-smelling breath. Everyone experiences bad breath from time to time. Unfortunately, it can be a chronic issue for some people, which is called halitosis. Your dentist has 6 simple tips to stop the odor.

Tips to Stop Bad Breath

It can seem like you are the only person dealing with the embarrassment of reoccurring bad breath; however, at least 80 million people experience it at some point. Although the foods you eat can be a source of the smell, most halitosis originates from the tongue and gums. There are several things you can do to help keep the odor at bay:

1. Brush Twice a Day

Food particles and plaque cause smelly bacteria to grow in your mouth. Brush your teeth at least twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to reduce bacteria growth.

• Floss

Your toothbrush cannot remove trapped food and plaque from between your teeth. Flossing daily is the only way to eliminate the accumulations. It also helps to prevent gum disease, which can be another source of bad breath.

• Clean Your Tongue

Residue on your tongue is a leading source of bad breath. Brush your tongue or use a special scraper to clean buildup between your taste buds. Be careful not to apply too much pressure, which can cause irritation or injury to the tongue.

• Stop Smoking

Tobacco products contribute to bad breath because they leave your mouth dry and cause an unpleasant odor to linger. Brushing may not be enough to eliminate the smell. Instead, it is better for your mouth and body to stop using tobacco altogether.

• Visit Your Dentist

Semi-annual visits to your dentist remove odor-causing plaque and tartar from your teeth while also monitoring your oral health for issues that can also cause bad breath, such as tooth decay and gum disease. Your dentist can also give you additional tips and advice to keep your breath smelling great.

• Stay Hydrated

Dry mouth leads to bad breath because it encourages bacteria growth. You can help keep it under control and help rinse away food particles by drinking a glass of water. This is especially important if you take medications that are known to cause dry mouth.

Stop the Smell Today!

It is tempting to turn to minty mouthrinses to combat bad breath. They can help mask the odor, but they are only a temporary fix. Instead, it is best to get to the root of the problem to stop the smell for good. If changes to your home oral hygiene habits are not enough, do not hesitate to schedule a consultation with your dentist.

About Bethel Dental

Bethel Dental provides personalized services to help our patients look and feel their best through optimal oral health. If you are dealing with reoccurring bad breath, we can create the solution you need to stop the smell. Contact our office today for an appointment.