Nobody wants bad breath, but it happens to all of us from time to time. It’s important to know the cause behind it so that you can address it at its source instead of just masking the symptoms. Stinky breath can be a thing of the past when you know how to prevent it. Here’s how to keep your breath fresh so you can approach life with confidence.
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
It may come as a surprise, but the leading cause of bad breath isn’t garlic or onions. It’s actually the bacteria that naturally occurs in your mouth. Normally, it’s kept in a healthy balance, but when foods with sugars or carbs are introduced or if you suffer from a condition like dry mouth, it can throw off the balance and lead to an overgrowth of bacteria. That’s why practicing good oral hygiene is important to keep your breath fresh.
Brushing your teeth after every meal and flossing daily is important. It’s also important to visit your dentist regularly for routine check-ups and professional cleanings. Your dentist will be able to spot any hard-to-reach trouble areas where food debris and plaque may accumulate and lead to bad breath or cavities.
Eat Healthy Foods
Eating healthy is also a good way to keep your breath fresh. Eating crunchy whole foods like fresh apples, strawberries, carrots, and celery can help to keep your teeth cleaner. Cutting back on sugars can also help you avoid bad breath since the bacteria in your mouth feeds on sugar.
Avoid Foods that Cause Bad Breath
While bad breath is caused by bacteria more than many people realize, some foods can contribute to stinky breath and make it harder to combat. Garlic, onion, and coffee are all common culprits. If you really enjoy these things and don’t want to avoid them, you can help keep your breath fresh by brushing your teeth or using mouthwash afterwards.
Having a Conversation with Your Dentist
If you experience bad breath that seems to be chronic, it’s a good idea to visit your dentist. Your dentist can help you with pinpointing the exact cause of the bad breath and help you come up with solutions. These might include a modified dental care regimen, a prescription mouthwash, or special toothpaste to better combat it at its source. Don’t be afraid to enlist the help of your dentist in your fight against bad breath! You don’t need to suffer from bad breath!
Call our Hays, KS, dental office to make an appointment with a dentist who may be able to help you find out more about this topic, and improve your oral health.