Posted by Northeast Dental Associates on Apr 28 2023, 07:58 AM
Brushing and flossing your teeth regularly helps to get rid of bad breath. But, these habits are not enough. Here are a few tips to eliminate bad breath.
Dental plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that builds up in your mouth over time. When it’s allowed to build up on teeth and along the gum line, it can lead to cavities and gum disease. The bacteria in plaque also cause bad breath. One of the best ways to fight plaque is to brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste for at least two minutes each time. Make sure to brush your teeth first thing in the morning before breakfast to remove food debris from your mouth during the night hours. And make sure to brush again before going to bed at night to rid your mouth of food debris and bacteria that have built up throughout the day.
We know flossing isn’t fun for most people. But skipping out on this important step of oral hygiene can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. The areas between your teeth are nearly impossible to reach with a toothbrush alone. This is where plaque and tartar can accumulate and cause cavities. Plus, the bacteria from your mouth can travel to other parts of your body and contribute to issues like heart disease and diabetes. Instead, use floss to clean this area of your mouth. While there are a number of different types of floss available, we recommend using a waxed variety for easier maneuvering. If your teeth are tightly spaced together, you can use an interdental cleaner.
Most people do not realize that the tongue needs cleaning too. Debris and dead cells can build up on the tongue and cause a foul odor. A buildup of bacteria can also contribute to bad breath.
Brushing your tongue is just as important as brushing your teeth. Some toothbrushes have a small brush on the tip that can be used to clean your tongue. Using your toothbrush to clean the surface of your tongue gently will help improve your breath. You can also use a tongue scraper to clean your tongue.
Cleaning your dentures and dental appliances every day will help remove food particles and bacteria from your mouth and keep them clean for long-lasting use. You should always wash them after each use and ask your dentist about the proper methods for cleaning your appliances. If your dentures do not fit properly, this may lead to mouth sores, gum irritation, and infection. It is important to see your dentist for regular adjustments to keep your dentures fitting correctly.
When your mouth is dry, there is minimal saliva inside your mouth to protect it from microorganisms and leftover food particles. A dry mouth can be caused by certain medications, allergies, or breathing through the mouth instead of the nose. Try drinking more water and having sugar-free gum to help stimulate saliva flow. If the problem persists, talk to your dentist about other ways to treat it.
A healthy diet is not only good for your body, but it’s also great for your smile! Eating healthy foods can help ward off bad breath, tooth decay, and gum disease. We recommend eating lots of fresh fruit and vegetables as well as lean meats and whole grains. Foods high in sugar can cause cavities and bad breath, so it’s best to limit your intake of foods and drinks that are high in sugar, like candy, soda, energy drinks, and sports drinks.
It’s also important to drink water regularly throughout the day to help your mouth stay moist and wash away food particles that can cause bacteria to grow in your mouth. Drinking water and chewing sugar-free gum are also great ways to keep your mouth hydrated and help dislodge food from your teeth.
Replace your toothbrush every few months. Toothbrush bristles wear away over time and become less effective at cleaning your teeth. A worn toothbrush can also cause gum recession in soft-bristled toothbrushes. You can prevent this by regularly changing your toothbrush, as well as brushing gently to avoid damaging your gums.
Regular dental checkups are important for achieving good oral health, maintaining your beautiful smile, and identifying potential concerns early on. The American Dental Association recommends visiting the dentist every six months for optimal dental health. These dental visits are crucial for catching oral issues in their earlier stages and preventing the need for more invasive treatment in the future. Professional teeth cleanings remove plaque, tartar buildup, and debris from hard-to-reach areas in your mouth. Your dentist will also clean beneath the gum line to remove any lingering bacteria or buildup on your teeth. This will help prevent bad breath.
To learn more, visit Northeast Dental Associates at 19411 McKay Dr #150, Humble, TX 77338, or call (346) 477-2055 to schedule an appointment.
