Everyone has had bad breath at some point in their lives. Some people notice it shortly after waking up, while others may have it after eating certain foods. Although it’s certainly embarrassing, it’s a common condition that affects more than 80 million people. Fortunately, there are numerous ways you can prevent it and keep your breath smelling fresh. Read on to learn about a few common causes of bad breath and different ways you can alleviate it.
What Causes Bad Breath?
In most cases, bad breath originates from the teeth and gums. There are many possible reasons why you may have this foul-smelling mouth odor, including:
- Food – Onions, garlic, and certain spices are just a few foods that can contribute to bad breath.
- Tobacco – Smoking and using tobacco can lead to an unpleasant mouth odor. These poor habits also increase your risk of gum disease, which is another common source of bad breath.
- Poor Oral Hygiene – Brushing, flossing, and rinsing every day helps eliminate food particles and debris that may be causing bad breath.
- Dry Mouth – If your mouth is not producing enough saliva to wash away bacteria and other debris, it can lead to foul mouth odors.
How to Stop Bad Breath in Its Tracks
Are you suffering from bad breath? Here are a few ways you can get rid of it:
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
The best way to ward off bad breath is by keeping your mouth clean. Make sure you’re brushing twice a day for two minutes each time, flossing daily, and rinsing with an ADA-approved mouthwash. These essential practices will keep your mouth free of harmful substances that may be contributing to a foul odor.
Clean Your Tongue
Bacteria, food particles, and other debris can get trapped in the grooves and crevices on your tongue. Cleaning your tongue is incredibly important as it helps eliminate any substances causing bad breath. To clean it, make sure you brush it gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush or use a tongue scraper.
Quit Using Tobacco
Poor habits like smoking and using tobacco products can cause a foul odor in your mouth. Tobacco stains your teeth and dries out your mouth, leaving an unpleasant lingering smell. If you need a reason to quit, do it for the sake of your breath!
Drink Plenty of Water
Staying hydrated is one of the best ways to avoid dry mouth. By drinking water, you can wash away any substances causing bad breath. If you have chronic dry mouth, your dentist may recommend an over-the-counter saliva substitute for relief.
Do you have bad breath? Don’t worry – you can keep your breath nice and fresh for as long as possible by following the tips outlined above!
About the Practice
At Moulton Dentistry, we go above and beyond to treat every patient like a member of our very own family. Our team is passionate about providing high-quality, dedicated, individually tailored dental care that’s guaranteed to leave you smiling after every appointment. If you suffer from bad breath, don’t hesitate to contact us for help. We’ll get you the prompt relief you deserve! Visit our website or call (205) 988-3360 to make an appointment today.