Bad breath happens to everyone. Whether you just ate a flavorful meal, or you woke up with a stale odor in your mouth, you might occasionally find that your breath is less than pleasant. But what if you are struggling to get rid of your bad breath? This blog post touches on some common causes of bad breath and provides practical advice to help you deal with it.
What Causes Bad Breath?
Bad breath, also known as halitosis, is often the result of bacterial buildup in the mouth. The bacteria produce sulphur, which, of course, carries an unpleasant odor. An excess of sulphur-producing bacteria can be the result of poor oral hygiene, gum disease, a dry mouth, or other causes.
Another common culprit behind bad breath is food. Some highly fragrant foods, such as garlic and onions, can get into your bloodstream and your lungs, where they can affect your breath for several hours after a meal.
The chemical compounds found in cigarettes and tobacco can also be major contributors to bad breath.
Tips to Get Rid of Bad Breath
Of course, the best way to get rid of bad breath depends on what is causing it. Here are some tips that may help you to freshen up:
Visit Your Dentist
If you struggle with bad breath day after day, and you notice that your gums are red or swollen, it is quite likely that you have gum disease. Your dentist can design a treatment plan to help you get rid of the infection.
Adjust Your Oral Hygiene Routine
You should strive to brush your teeth twice a day and floss once a day. It is also beneficial to use a tongue scraper. If you are unsure of what techniques to use to thoroughly clean your mouth, ask your dental hygienist at your next professional cleaning appointment.
Keep Your Mouth Moist
A dry mouth can allow unwanted bacteria to thrive. Be sure to drink plenty of water so you can support your body’s saliva production. You might also find it helpful to suck on sugar-free candy or chew sugar-free gum.
Stop Bad Habits
Tobacco products do more than cause bad breath. They also increase your risk of gum disease, oral cancer, and many other health problems. Your dentist or primary care practitioner can offer practical guidance to help you kick the habit.
Eat a Crunchy Fruit or Vegetable
When you chew on an apple, celery stick, or carrot, you can increase saliva flow, which will help to rinse away unwanted bacteria in your mouth. Having a small snack can also help to alleviate the bad breath that sometimes accompanies fasting.
Bad breath is both annoying and embarrassing. Hopefully, the tips in this article will help you to enjoy a fresher, more confident smile.
Meet the Practice
Under the leadership of Dr. Bryan Griffith, Brookside Dental Care has a widespread reputation for providing comfortable and high-quality oral health services. Whether it is time for your next checkup and cleaning, or you want help to battle gum disease, we are ready to assist you. Get in touch with our Prestonsburg office at 606-874-9311.