Do you struggle with bad breath? You aren’t alone. Approximately 80 million Americans suffer from chronic bad breath, also known as halitosis. It can be frustrating and even embarrassing in social situations. Fortunately, this isn’t something that you need to put up with forever. There are numerous steps you can take to eliminate and prevent bad breath. Your dentist in Carlisle shares some tips that are likely to help reduce your halitosis.
Brush Twice a Day
Brushing your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes each time is necessary to remove food debris and plaque that contain the bacteria that cause bad breath. Taking time to brush your teeth before bed is a must if you are going to prevent morning breath. If you want to take an extra step, try an additional round of brushing with baking soda in order to reduce acidity in the mouth and make it more difficult for bacteria to grow.
Floss Daily
Even though brushing your teeth goes a long way, there are still areas in your mouth that cannot be reached with your toothbrush. By taking time to floss, you can clean away plaque and food particles that have found their way between the teeth and beneath your gumline.
Use Mouthwash
Using a mouth rinse can help to wash away food particles and bad breath causing bacteria. However, if you have chronic halitosis, this step may only cover up the problem and not eliminate it at the source. It can even make bad breath worse by irritating oral tissue and causing dry mouth. Ask your dentist what type of mouthwash they’d recommend.
Clean Your Tongue
Your tongue accumulates food debris when you eat too. It builds up between the taste buds and folds in the tongue. You can clean this away by brushing your tongue with your toothbrush or investing in an inexpensive tool called a tongue scraper.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water helps to prevent dry mouth. It also neutralized acids in the mouth and helps to wash away food particles and bacteria that cause bad breath. A sufficient amount of water for most people is about 6 to 8 cups each day.
Chew Gum
Having a piece of sugar-free gum or candy helps to stimulate saliva flow. This will wash away food debris, bacteria, and neutralize harmful acids in the mouth. It also leaves your favorite flavor behind.
Have a Healthy Snack
High fiber fruits and vegetables like apples, carrots, and celery are great at stimulating saliva flow in the mouth. These snacks also help to stop bad breath that is cause by hunger or fasting. Try to have one of these between meals.
Stop Smoking
Tobacco products contribute to bad breath. This is because smoking dries out your mouth and tends to leave an unpleasant smell that lingers, even after you brush your teeth. Ask your doctor, friends, and family about the best ways that you can quit.
See Your Dentist
If halitosis is becoming a problem for you, this is definitely something to mention to your dentist during your checkup. They will be able to rule out underlying dental issues and give you the best advice to eliminate it.
If you’re suffering from bad breath, try the steps listed above. You’re bound to find something that will leave you with a fresher smile!
About the Author
Dr. Thomas Neslund’s career in dentistry expands back for three decades. He earned his DMD degree from the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine and has studied extensively with the Seattle Institute for Advanced Dental Education (SPEAR). Dr. Neslund is a member of the American Dental Association, the Academy of General Dentistry, and the Pennsylvania Dental Association. For more information on preventing halitosis or to schedule an appointment, visit his website or call (717) 258-5455.