Bad breath, also known as halitosis, is an unfortunate but common issue that affects many people. The problem is often caused by a build-up of bacteria that occurs when food particles are trapped in the teeth and when plaque is left to accumulate in the mouth. Bad breath can also be caused by certain foods and drinks, such as garlic, spices, onions, coffee, and alcohol. The good news is that in many cases, it is possible to resolve bad breath quite easily — read on for our tips on keeping your mouth fresh.
One of the best things you can do to keep bad breath at bay is to make sure that your mouth is clean and free from foul-smelling bacteria. You should brush your teeth at least twice a day. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste and try to brush for at least two minutes each time. You should also floss your teeth every day so that you can get rid of food particles and plaque from between the teeth and along the gumline.
As well as regular brushing and flossing, you should also clean your tongue. Bacteria and food debris often accumulate on the tongue’s surface and should be removed every time that you brush your teeth. Simply brush your tongue with your toothbrush or use a tongue scraper.
If you have dentures or another dental appliance like a bridge, retainer, mouth guard, or aligner, be sure to clean it properly at least once a day or as recommended by your dentist or orthodontist. It is possible for bacteria and plaque to build up on these kinds of appliances, which is why regular and thorough cleaning is so important. If you wear an aligner or retainer, remember to clean it every time you put it back in your mouth.
If your bad breath is caused by a build-up of plaque on your teeth and gums, you might consider a mouth rinse that has been specially formulated to kill bacteria. Chat with your dentist about your concerns, as they will be able to recommend a product that best suits your needs.
Your dentist might also recommend that you use toothpaste that contains an antibacterial ingredient to get rid of the bacteria that lead to plaque.
Saliva plays an important role in keeping the mouth clean and helps to wash away leftover food particles and other debris. So, when there is not enough saliva in the mouth, bacteria can build up and contribute to bad breath. Try to keep your mouth moist by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. This will help stimulate the production of saliva and rinse away unwanted debris.
As well as drinking plenty of water, you can keep your mouth moist by avoiding tobacco, coffee, carbonated soft drinks, and alcohol, all of which tend to dry out the mouth. Chew on some sugar-free gum to stimulate the production of saliva between meals.
If you are suffering from chronic dry mouth, you should consult with your dentist. The issue could be caused by an underlying condition, and your dentist may be able to prescribe medication to help the flow of saliva.
If you suspect that your dietary choices are causing bad breath, you might consider limiting your consumption of the main culprits. Some foods, such as garlic and onions, are absorbed by the body and enter the bloodstream, causing you to breathe out their odour. Beverages like coffee and alcohol, for example, tend to dry out the mouth and can also contribute to bad breath.
If you do eat or drink something that causes bad breath, you may find it helpful to chew on some sugar-free gum afterward. This helps promote the production of saliva, while ingredients like xylitol hinder the growth of bacteria in the mouth.
Even if you practice good oral hygiene habits every day, it’s a good idea to replace your toothbrush every three to four months, or as soon as you notice wear and tear. If you have noticed frayed or loose bristles, it’s definitely time for a new toothbrush—damaged bristles simply won’t be able to clean your teeth properly.
When choosing a toothbrush, opt for one with soft bristles and a small head that is easy and comfortable to move around your mouth.
It is important to understand that bad breath is sometimes a sign of an underlying health concern, so if you are struggling with the issue even after improving your oral hygiene habits and watching what you eat, it’s a good idea to consult with your dentist. Your dentist will examine your teeth and gums and determine the cause of the issue before recommending a treatment plan that is suited to your needs.
If your dentist identifies gum disease as an underlying cause of your bad breath, they may recommend a treatment to address the condition. In many cases, gum disease can cause the gums to pull away from the teeth, which can cause deep pockets to form. These pockets often trap odour-causing bacteria, which are best removed through professional cleaning.
At The Smile Speciality Dental Group, we encourage all our patients to come in and see us for a check-up and cleaning every six months. At these appointments, we can get rid of any plaque and tartar that may be affecting your oral health and advise you as to how you can improve your hygiene habits at home. If you have a question about your oral health, please don’t hesitate to chat with our team.
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