An estimated one in four Americans has chronic bad breath or halitosis. Although this problem isn’t fatal, it does deserve to be taken seriously. Having bad breath is embarrassing, and can make you feel self-conscious and unattractive. Most people will experience the occasional bout of bad breath which is usually caused by eating highly flavored foods, or due to illnesses such as a heavy cold. If bad breath is more persistent, talk to your dentist in Newport Beach, CA to find out how to deal with this issue.
Tips for dealing with halitosis include:
Step up Your Oral Care at Home
Neglecting to brush and floss thoroughly can lead to food becoming trapped in between teeth. This will attract plaque bacteria, and the food will gradually rot, causing unpleasant odors. Poor oral hygiene increases your risk for cavities and gum disease.
Brush Your Tongue
Your tongue is the perfect breeding ground for odor causing bacteria. When you brush your teeth, don’t forget to brush your tongue at the same time. It’s possible to buy specially designed tongue scrapers for just a few dollars.
Get Hydrated
Make sure you drink plenty of water as this will ensure you can produce adequate saliva. It’s essential to have plenty of saliva to wash away food debris and bacteria, and to reduce acidity levels in the mouth.
Clean All Dental Appliances
Keep all dental appliances meticulously clean, including dentures, braces, retainers and mouthguards. All these appliances can harbor bacteria, increasing your chances of bad breath. Whenever you remove an appliance, make sure you wash it thoroughly to remove bacteria and any particles of food.
Quit or Cut down on Smoking
Smoking dries out your mouth and increases your risk of gum disease, a condition that can cause bad breath. In addition, smoking is a known risk factor for developing oral cancer, and your family dentist in Newport Beach, CA would definitely recommend you quit if possible.
