Bad breath, or halitosis, is a very common problem, especially if you enjoy foods such as garlic and onions. In fact, there is a multi-billion industry built on breath fresheners. These products work wonders on short-term halitosis caused by a smelly meal or other transient concerns. Chronic bad breath is a bit harder to fight, but these 4 tips will have your breath smelling sweet in no time.
Oral Hygiene
The first step is to make sure your oral hygiene is on point. Brush after every meal, or at least twice per day, and floss at least once per day. Rinse with cool, clear water after every sugary beverage or snack. Spend a full 30 seconds brushing each quadrant of your mouth. Have professional cleanings twice per year.
Also consider using a tongue scraper. This allows you to thoroughly clean the back of your tongue without triggering your gag reflex. Since bacteria tend to collect on the tongue, this is an easy way to remove a large quantity of odor-causing bacteria.
A medicated mouth rinse will fight the bacteria that cause bad breath. Choose a formulation with both bacteria-killing agents and a lingering pleasant smell. Over the counter products work well for many people, but prescription formulations are available if needed.
Hydration
Saliva is your body’s own natural mouth rinse, and a dry mouth makes it easier for the bacteria that cause odors to take hold. Drink at least eight glasses of water per day, and up your intake if you live in an arid climate or are on medications that cause dry mouth. You can also run a humidifier at night and choose oral hygiene products designed to fight dryness.
Diet
Reducing your sugar intake can improve your breath by reducing the amount of food that is available for odor-causing oral bacteria. If you enjoy candy, switch to a sugar-free version or to sugarless gum, which also stimulates saliva production. When you do ingest sugar, rinse your mouth immediately after.
Green and black tea, as well as spices such as fennel and cardamom, have natural antibacterial properties. Tea is also known to be soothing, allowing you to relax while fighting your bad breath. It can even settle your stomach, helping you fight such bad breath causes as acid reflux.
See Your Dentist
Tooth decay, sinusitis, and other health conditions can cause bad breath. Treating the underlying issue will not only improve your breath, but also your overall health. If you have not gotten relief from home remedies, make an appointment with your dentist.
Most of the time, bad breath is caused by something minor and easy to treat. If you suffer from this incredibly common condition, try the tips above. In the modern world, there is no reason to continue to live with halitosis.
Ready for Help?
If you are in the Westford area and want to banish your bad breath for good, please contact Emerson Dental today at 978-399-0017 to schedule an appointment.