Bad breath, otherwise known as halitosis, can be an embarrassing problem and an indicator of your overall wellness. From gut health to sleep apnea, hundreds of conditions have a link to oral odors.
While everything from foods to medications can cause offending odors, you don’t have to resign yourself to the problem. Keep reading to learn a few tricks to get rid of bad breath!
Common Causes of Bad Breath
Bleeding gums often go hand in hand because gingivitis is a leading cause of halitosis; luckily, it’s very treatable. But, sometimes, bad breath can point to more significant issues. For example, did you know it can be one of the first signs of a heart attack?
Aside from more serious underlying conditions like heart disease, cancer, or cirrhosis, here are some of the most common causes of bad breath.
- Dry mouth
- Infrequent brushing or flossing
- Bacteria on the tongue
- Gum disease
- Tooth decay
- Smoking
- Diet
The good news? A little prevention goes a long way. So, if you’re ready to treat bad breath, keep reading for six simple tips.
6 Tricks to Get Rid of Bad Breath
Bad breath can rob you of confidence, impact relationships, and even point to long-term health concerns. Here are some tips that will help you take control of your oral health.
Tip #1: Brush and Floss Daily
Bad breath happens when bacteria build up in the mouth. The best way to prevent bad breath is by brushing and flossing your teeth twice daily. Performing this simple task helps remove food particles that have collected on the surface of your tongue and in the grooves of your teeth.
Tip #2: Visit Your Dentist for Regular Checkups
Prevention is the best medicine! Regular dental cleanings—preferably twice per year—are an easy way to keep plaque and tartar at bay, keep your teeth sparkling, and maintain fresh breath.
Putting off routine dental care can lead to bad breath and a host of severe medical conditions. So, make time for your next checkup. If you need a dentist, Peace Haven Family Dentistry is honored to care for your smile.
schedule YOUR appointment Today!
Tip #3: Avoid Tobacco and Alcohol
Alcohol and tobacco products can lead to halitosis because they dry out your mouth and kill beneficial bacteria. The best way to avoid halitosis is to cut out alcohol and smoking altogether. However, if you choose to partake, here’s how to mitigate the effects.
- Drink plenty of water
- Chew on parsley
- Gargle with saltwater
Tip #4: Stay Hydrated
Bad breath and dry mouth are strongly connected. Keeping your mouth moisturized and your body hydrated is one of the easiest ways to get rid of bad breath. In general, it’s a good idea to drink eight glasses of water each day. When possible, you should avoid sugary beverages that can lead to tooth decay and cause bacteria to multiply.
Tip #5: Gargle Before Bedtime
Sick of morning breath? One of the best ways to keep bad breath at bay is by gargling with an alcohol-free mouth rinse. While it’s a good idea to use a mouthwash for bad breath twice each day, it’s crucial to rinse before bed, as bacteria multiply while you’re sleeping.
Tip #6: Scrape Your Tongue
If you’ve ever wondered what causes bad breath even after brushing, the answer might be your tongue. Sometimes, brushing and flossing alone isn’t enough. The tongue is a breeding ground for harmful bacteria, so using a scraper once or twice each day is an excellent way to get rid of halitosis. You can find tongue scrapers in the dental aisle at your local drugstore or home goods store.
Looking for More Tricks to Get Rid of Bad Breath?
Following these tips will go a long way toward helping you have fresher breath. But if you have questions or concerns, we’re here to help!
Peace Haven Family Dentistry is ready to serve you and your family with compassionate dental care.
Worried about bad breath?
schedule YOUR appointment Today!
All Aspects of General Dentistry Including: Root Canal Therapy, Dental Extractions, Invisalign, Dental Implants, Tooth Colored Fillings, Same Day CEREC Crowns, Full and Partial Dentures, 3-D CBCT X-rays
My office is located at:
1086 Whitaker Rd.
Winston Salem, NC 27106
336-765-9247
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