How to Stop Bad Breath in Its Tracks

Most of us know what it’s like to wake up with bad breath, but when it follows you throughout the day, it can be frustrating and embarrassing. But its actually more common than you may think. Over 80 million Americans suffer from chronic halitosis, usually coming from the gums and the tongue. Fortunately, there are many ways that you can combat halitosis and leave yourself with fresh breath all throughout the day. Continue reading to learn more about how to prevent bad breath from your dentist in Far North Dallas.

Brush Twice Daily

Brushing your teeth at least twice a day is the best way to remove plaque and food debris from your mouth. When they get left behind, bacteria will grow and result in foul breath. If you want to take an extra step, try brushing for an additional round with baking soda. This will reduce the acidity in the mouth an make it difficult for bacteria to grow.

Floss Every Day

Even if you brush twice every day, food debris and plaque will still be left behind. This will cause bacterial growth which is a large contributor to halitosis. By flossing daily, you can remove it from hard to reach places like between the teeth and beneath the gumline.

Use Mouthwash

Rinsing your mouth with a mouthwash helps to clear away any remaining food debris in the mouth. It is also great at masking any odors in the mouth. However, if you are suffering from chronic halitosis, mouthwash doesn’t get to the root of the problem.

Clean Your Tongue

Your tongue can also build up food debris and bacteria. After you brush your teeth, don’t forget to give the surface of your tongue a brush too. You could also invest in an inexpensive tool called a tongue scraper. This helps to remove any bad breath causing buildups that are lingering on the tongue.

Sugar-Free Gum

If your mouth is becoming dry, try to moisten it up with a piece of sugar-free gum or candy. This stimulates saliva production and helps to wash away food debris and bacteria in the mouth that leads to halitosis.

Drink Water

By staying hydrated throughout the day with six to eight cups of water, you can avoid dry mouth and wash away food debris and bacteria, the most common cause of halitosis.

Stop Smoking

Tobacco products have a tendency to dry out your mouth and also leave you with an unpleasant smell that lingers, even after you brush your teeth. If you needed another reason to discontinue this habit, here it is. Ask your doctor, friends, and family about the best ways that you can quit.

Have a Healthy Snack

High fiber fruits and vegetables, like apples, celery, and carrots, can help to stimulate saliva flow. If you have bad breath, try munching on these items between meals. These can also help to alleviate halitosis that is caused by hunger or fasting.

If you are struggling with halitosis, try some of the steps listed above. Also, don’t be afraid to talk to your dentist about more possible solutions. They are happy to help you deal with this type of problem. You’ll have a fresh smile again soon enough.

About the Practice

At Bear Creek Family Dentistry, the team consists of both general dentists and specialists in pediatric dentistry, orthodontics, oral surgery, and prosthodontic so patients can get everything they need in one place. The staff are devoted to spending numerous hours continuing education every year in order to keep up with advances in technology and techniques. To learn more or schedule an appointment, visit their website or call (972) 490-1600.