Bad breath, or halitosis, can be caused by poor dental hygiene habits or may be a sign of a more serious underlying condition. There are a number of ways to get rid of bad breath, including brushing your teeth, flossing, and using mouthwash. 

Brush your teeth twice daily

To keep your breath fresh and clean, make sure to brush your teeth every morning and every night before bed. Brushing after you eat can also help prevent bad breath caused by food particles stuck in between teeth. A soft-bristled toothbrush is recommended to prevent damage to tooth enamel. Electric toothbrushes are also a great alternative to manual toothbrushes because they offer superior cleaning action.

Floss at least once a day

When you floss your teeth, you remove plaque from between your teeth and underneath your gum line. If you don’t floss regularly, food particles can get stuck between your teeth. This can cause bad breath because bacteria break down the food particles left in your mouth.

Brush your tongue

Tongue scrapers can remove excess bacteria from your tongue. In addition, brushing your tongue will effectively remove odor-causing particles and bacteria. Use a tongue scraper each time you brush for effective results.

Avoid dry mouth

Dry mouth is a condition that can negatively affect your oral health. Saliva is your body’s natural defense against the bacteria in your mouth that contribute to bad breath. So if you don’t have enough saliva, your mouth will be vulnerable to these bacteria that cause halitosis.

If you suffer from dry mouth, it’s important that you see your dentist for regular examinations and cleanings. Your dentist will be able to measure your saliva production and suggest remedies that can help improve the amount of saliva you have.

Adjust your diet

Certain foods and beverages can cause bad breath by leaving behind an unpleasant smell on your breath. Some foods to avoid include onions, garlic, cheeses, alcohol, and certain spices. To help prevent bad breath while you eat these foods, eat them with a meal rather than by themselves. You can also use mouthwash after meals to freshen up your breath. 

Regularly get a new toothbrush

The American Dental Association recommends that you replace your brush every three to four months to prevent bacteria buildup on your brush. If the bristles of your brush are frayed, it’s time to replace them. You should also replace your toothbrush after you’ve been sick with a different brush to avoid reintroducing the bacteria in your mouth to your mouth. A worn toothbrush can also be a sign that you’re not brushing properly – if you’re not getting your teeth clean enough, they can wear down more quickly. If you’re having trouble accessing a new toothbrush, you can always ask your dentist for recommendations.

Schedule regular dental checkups

When you go in for regular dental cleanings, your dentist can clean away any plaque and tartar buildup that has accumulated since your last visit. Regular dental cleanings will also help prevent gum disease, which is a leading cause of bad breath. By getting regular professional teeth cleanings, you can help ensure your breath is always fresh.

 To learn more about our services, visit Hollander Dental Associates at 1273 Las Flores Dr, Carlsbad, CA 92008, or call (760) 434-2526.