Tips To Get Rid Of Bad Breath

Bad breath, also known as halitosis, can result from poor dental health habits, dry mouth, or an underlying medical condition. Brushing and flossing your teeth, tongue, and gums after meals can help prevent bad breath. Regular dental checkups can also help detect any underlying problems. Read on to learn more. 

Brushing your teeth

Brush your teeth twice daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Replace your toothbrush every three to four months or sooner if the bristles are frayed. Be sure to brush the areas around your gum line and teeth, as well as your tongue. This will remove food particles that can turn into plaque. It can also remove bacteria that can cause bad breath. You should also floss daily to remove debris from between the teeth that your toothbrush can't reach. Ask your dentist about the best types of dental products for dental care after each meal and before bedtime. 

Flossing your teeth

If bad breath seems to be an ongoing problem for you, it might be time to take a closer look at your flossing habits! Most people brush their teeth twice a day – once in the morning and once in the evening before going to sleep. But did you know you should be flossing for the same amount of time? In order to prevent plaque buildup and cavities between teeth, you should floss a minimum of once per day. We recommend flossing before bed to avoid any food particles remaining in the mouth overnight. We recommend asking your dentist about the best type of floss if you are just getting started with daily flossing!

Brushing your tongue

Did you know that the tongue is a haven for millions of bacteria? The tip of your tongue is especially dirty with tiny papillae that trap food and bacteria to form a white coating over time. That's why it's so important to brush your tongue using a soft-bristled toothbrush or a tongue-scraper in addition to brushing your teeth and gums. Using a mouthwash after you brush your teeth daily can also help to keep your mouth clean. Mouthwashes not only kill bacteria in your mouth but also help to reduce plaque and tartar buildup on your teeth. Just be sure to choose an alcohol-free version to avoid drying your mouth out further.

Cleaning your dentures or dental appliances

Soak dentures in denture cleanser and water overnight to avoid plaque buildup. Also, use a soft-bristled brush to clean your dentures daily. Do not clean them using toothpaste, as it may scratch the surface.

If your dentures get damaged, schedule an appointment with your dentist immediately to find the solution you need. Damaged dental appliances can affect your oral health. For example, cracked dentures can lead to infections, while broken bridges can be uncomfortable to wear and difficult to clean.

Adjusting your diet

Eating foods like onions, garlic, and coffee can cause bad breath. Tobacco products are also a common cause of chronic bad breath. If you're a tobacco user, talk to your dentist about quitting for good. Your dentist may also be able to recommend an over-the-counter toothpaste that targets your bad breath source or refer you to a nutritionist to help you improve your diet. If you're experiencing severe bad breath that doesn't go away with brushing and flossing, you may have an underlying condition such as diabetes, liver disease, or kidney disease. Talk to your dentist for further help in determining the cause of your bad breath.

Regularly getting a new toothbrush

While it's important to brush your teeth twice a day to maintain good oral hygiene, it is also important to replace your toothbrush regularly. An old toothbrush will not clean your teeth as effectively because it will lose its effectiveness over time. So it's recommended that you change out your toothbrush every three to four months. If you are sick with a cold or another illness, change your toothbrush sooner to prevent it from spreading germs.

Scheduling regular dental checkups

You should visit the dentist for a cleaning and checkup every six months. Regular dental appointments help keep your mouth in good health by addressing any potential issues with your teeth and gums before they become serious. We will work with you to develop the best at-home care plan to keep teeth clean and free of bad breath, cavities, and infections between visits.

Remember - a clean mouth and a healthy smile are the keys to having great oral health! For more tips and tricks on achieving and maintaining a healthy smile and mouth, visit us. Our dentists at Colorado Wellness Dentistry are dedicated to helping our patients achieve optimal oral health with thorough examinations and professional cleanings. Call us to schedule your next appointment today.