Learning how to prevent bad breath can help you avoid embarrassing situations. It is a common condition, but it can have a significant effect on a person's interactions with others. Most cases of bad breath come from the gums and tongue, but it can also be from other parts of the body like the digestive or respiratory system.
How to prevent bad breath
1. Brush twice daily
Dentists recommend brushing teeth at least twice each day. One of those times should be right before bedtime since saliva production is decreased during sleep. Saliva helps to rinse off food particles, plaque and acids from teeth surfaces, and teeth are more vulnerable to decay when its production is reduced.
It is best to clean the mouth right before going to bed to protect teeth. Patients should spend about three minutes during each brushing session, cleaning the teeth, gums and tongue.
2. Floss once a day
Dental floss helps to remove plaque and food particles that are stuck between teeth. These particles can lead to tooth decay and bad breath when left there for extended periods.
3. Use a mouthwash
Mouthwash can be very handy when a person has bad breath. It helps to kill the bacteria that produce unpleasant odors and it freshens the person's breath. Mouthwash also cleans tight spaces that even dental floss cannot get to.
4. Drink lots of water
Water is great for a person's dental health. It helps to wash away food particles and plaque that are stuck on teeth and it promotes proper saliva production. Most public water supply systems are infused with fluoride, making it a good way to remineralize teeth as well.
5. Quit smoking
Smoking leads to bad breath. It dries out the mouth reducing saliva production, and it leaves behind an unpleasant odor. Cigarettes can also leave a very strong smell behind that can linger even after brushing.
6. Eat sugarless gum
Chewing on sugarless candy helps to improve saliva production. Saliva serves a very important function: washing away food particles, acids and bacteria from the mouth.
7. Eat healthy snacks
Munching on fresh vegetables and fruits can increase saliva production between meals. That leads to fresher smelling breath. Snacking can also help to minimize the type of bad breath that is caused by the acids in an empty stomach.
8. Avoid foods with strong aromas
Certain foods are guaranteed to give a person bad breath like onions, garlic and fish. It is best to avoid these items if fresh breath is a priority.
9. Visit a dentist twice a year
Regular visits to the dentist ensure any developing issues are discovered in their early stages. This includes dental problems that can lead to a person having bad breath.
Dealing with bad breath? Set up a consultation with one of our dentists and explore your options.
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Looking for dentist near the 53202 area? Call Eastside Dental at (414) 888-4000.
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