Bad, breath, also called halitosis, is a common problem that causes many to be self conscious and embarrassed. I am often asked how to eliminate bad breath so I want to share some helpful tips.
Brush Your Teeth Twice a Day
Brushing your teeth for two minutes twice a day will help prevent the bacteria that cause bad breath to grow. Brushing more than twice a day would not hurt either.
Floss at Least Once a Day
You will remove food debris and bacteria in between your teeth that can cause bad breath by flossing.
Brush Your Tongue
Often bacteria that cause bad breath hide between your taste buds and grooves on the back of your tongue so brushing there will help remove that bacteria.
Rinse with a Mouthwash
Dental mouthwashes help climate the bacteria that cause bad odors and are often flavored with mint which will freshen your breath.
Drink Water
By drinking 50 to 70 ounces of water daily you will help to prevent bad breath by washing away food pieces and bacteria and keeping your mouth moist. Dry mouth can contribute to bad breath.
Chew Sugarless Gum or Eat Sugarless Mints
Having a piece of sugarless candy or gum helps increase your saliva flow which in turn will wash away food particles and bacteria.
Avoid Smoking and Tobacco Products
Smoking drys out your mouth which will lead to bad breath. Also, tobacco leaves an unpleasant odor.
See Your Dentist Regularly
Having your teeth professionally cleaned will help remove bacteria, plague and tartar which cause bad breath. If you have chronic bad breath it is important to see your dentist to ensure there is not an underlying dental condition which is causing the odor.