Tips To Get Rid Of Bad Breath

Brushing and flossing your teeth daily is one of the most important things you can do to improve your oral health and prevent bad breath. However, they are not enough. Here are other tips and tricks to eliminate bad breath.

Brushing your teeth

Dental professionals recommend using a soft-bristled toothbrush and brushing for at least two minutes twice a day. Your teeth will benefit from the thorough cleansing of plaque and food particles that brushing provides. If using a manual toothbrush makes you gag or cause it to hurt, try switching to an electric toothbrush instead. Electric toothbrushes are more effective at removing buildup on teeth and cleaning hard-to-reach areas in the mouth.

Flossing the teeth

The act of brushing alone cannot remove all of the plaque and food debris from the hard-to-reach areas of the mouth. When food particles remain on the teeth after eating, the bacteria in the plaque convert them to acids that eat away at tooth enamel. By flossing daily to remove plaque and debris from between the teeth and along the gum line, you can protect against tooth decay and gum disease.

Brushing your tongue

Your tongue is a haven for bacteria and plaque. If you neglect to brush it, it can lead to bad breath (halitosis). Although brushing your tongue may seem unnecessary, it is essential for maintaining good oral hygiene and a healthy smile. Consider using a soft-bristled toothbrush or a tongue scraper to fully clean the tongue without irritating sensitive tissues. If you are struggling with bad breath, then make sure you clean your tongue as part of your daily dental care routine.

Cleaning your dentures/dental appliances

Your dentures should be cleaned every night before you go to bed. Do not place dentures in boiling water or in the dishwasher because doing so could warp their shape or cause damage. Rinse dentures thoroughly before soaking them overnight in a denture solution. We recommend using an overnight denture cleanser.

Avoiding dry mouth

Saliva is the body’s natural defense against tooth decay and bad breath. Many medications can lead to dry mouth, so it’s important to discuss all medication use with your dentist before beginning treatment. People who smoke are at a higher risk of developing dry mouth due to reduced saliva production. Dry mouth can also be caused by certain diseases and medical conditions such as diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s, and Sjogren’s syndrome. The good news is there are many ways to combat dry mouth and keep you more comfortable. Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Also, chew sugar-free gum after meals and snacks to stimulate more saliva flow. Eat foods that promote the production of saliva, such as apples, celery, carrots, pears, yogurt, cheese, and milk products. Also, get plenty of sleep each night to keep your energy levels up and avoid feeling fatigued throughout the day. Eating a balanced diet and getting enough rest will help you avoid fatigue and stress, which can contribute to a dry mouth. If you’re experiencing dry mouth symptoms and would like additional information on treatment options, please contact our office to schedule an appointment as soon as possible. 

Adjusting your diet

Avoiding certain foods can get rid of bad breath. Dairy products can cause bad breath because some people have difficulty breaking down the lactose in milk products. If you need to avoid dairy for health reasons, make sure to rinse your mouth with water after consuming these products. Other foods that can cause bad breath are onions, garlic, and spicy foods. These foods can increase the production of odor-causing sulfur compounds in your mouth. Also, minimizing your sugar intake can help cut down on the bacteria in your mouth. Bacteria cause plaque buildup, which can lead to gum disease and cause bad breath.

To learn more about good oral care, you can schedule your appointment with our dentist by calling us at (512) 358-1215 or visiting our dental office. We will be happy to guide you further.