No one is exempt from the occasional bad breath. Almost everyone enjoys eating or drinking foods and beverages that are known to leave behind a bit of a stink. However, when your bad breath goes from occasional to a regular occurrence, it is important that you seek proper advice from your dentist. It is encouraging to know that most cases of bad breath can be greatly improved by the consistent application of good habits and the avoidance of bad ones.
Practicing good oral hygiene is essential in combating bad breath. Brushing the teeth at least twice a day and flossing daily are the best ways to consistently ward off bad breath. Both of these clean the mouth so that foul smelling odors do not linger. Brushing the teeth removes bacteria-laden plaque from the surfaces of the teeth, while flossing removes plaque from the tight spaces between the teeth. If this plaque is not removed on a regular basis, it will begin to grow and eat away at the gum line causing an infection. An infection inside the mouth leads to an unpleasant taste and an unpleasant smell. By making the choice to brush and floss regularly, you are doing the most important daily step to prevent bad breath.
Of course, avoiding foods and beverages that are known to cause bad breath is also helpful. Onions, garlic, coffee, and alcoholic beverages are famous for their strong smells. They also all leave a residue behind that sticks to the plaque inside the mouth, so if you do not immediately brush and floss after consumption of these foul-smelling culprits, every time you exhale you are spewing their odors out into the air. Mouthwash can also come in handy for handling bad breath; however, it should never take the place of brushing and flossing.
Stopping tobacco use will not only improve your breath, but it will also improve your oral health. Tobacco itself smells bad, but because it irritates the gums, infection can set it in and lead to further, more long-lasting bad breath.
Maintaining a proper hydration level is also extremely important. A dry mouth dries out the plaque inside the mouth, leaving behind the smell of decay.
At Group Health Dental, we are here to help you promote oral health – in all its many aspects. If you are struggling with bad breath, or are simply looking for a dental practice to trust here in the Manhattan area, call today to schedule an appointment.
