Halitosis, or bad breath, can affect anyone. Regardless of how well you maintain your oral health, if your breath is unpleasant, you may be self-conscious about speaking or smiling. There are numerous causes for bad breath, including poor oral hygiene, tobacco use, dental problems, dry mouth, and certain foods. If you practice good oral hygiene, brush, and floss regularly, and attend regular dental checkups, you have a good chance of reducing bad breath. Read on to learn more.

Practice Good Oral Hygiene

The best way to get rid of bad breath is to practice good oral hygiene. This means brushing twice a day and flossing at least once per day. Additionally, it can be beneficial for a toothbrush to be changed every three months or so since brushing with a dirty toothbrush can actually cause more bad breath issues. 

Brushing twice a day and flossing daily are essential habits for preventing bad breath.

Brush your tongue

Brushing and flossing alone won’t be enough to prevent bad smells from building up in your mouth throughout the day. Plaque and bacteria can build up on your tongue between brushings, which you can’t reach effectively with a toothbrush. This can cause the odors to return even after you brush and floss. That’s why it’s especially important to brush the back of your tongue.

Try using a specialized tool called a tongue scraper to remove odor-causing residue from the hard-to-reach areas of your mouth. Hold the brush or scraper at the back of your tongue and pull it forward to remove bacteria and food debris.

Clean Dentures or Dental Appliances

Bacteria can build up on your dentures and dental appliances just like they can on your teeth. It’s important to clean them regularly to prevent bad breath. Plus, it’s the only way to keep them in good condition! Your dentist can help recommend the best cleaning method. It may involve soaking the denture in special solutions overnight, which your dentist may instruct you to do at home. Ask your dentist for more information.

Avoid Dry Mouth

Saliva helps rinse away food particles and bacteria from your mouth. People who have dry mouths are prone to bad breath because saliva is not doing their job. It’s important to stay hydrated to produce enough saliva. If you suffer from dry mouth caused by certain medications, ask your doctor if there are other options available.

Adjust Your Diet

A poor diet can mean more volatile bad breath. Foods containing garlic, onions, and cabbage can all contribute to persistent malodorous breath. Sugary foods can also cause excessive bacteria to fester inside your mouth and lead to foul-smelling halitosis. Try cutting back on these foods and drinks, and rinse your mouth with water after eating them to help rinse away bacteria. Some mouthwashes can also help mask the bad smells from lingering in your mouth.

Replace your toothbrush often

You should replace your toothbrush every three to four months. However, if your bristles begin to fray before that time period, it is time to buy a new one. You should also consider replacing your toothbrush after an illness, such as a stomach bug or the flu. It is important to change your toothbrush as soon as possible to avoid reinfection from your old toothbrush.

It is essential to have regular checkups and cleanings to maintain your oral health and prevent tooth decay or tooth damage. Visit Focus Dental Group at 6770 S 900 E Suite 301, Midvale, UT 84047, or call (801) 255-7101 to schedule an appointment.