How can I avoid bad breath?

Bad breath is a common problem, and most people have experienced it at some stage in their lives.

Also known as halitosis, the condition is sometimes simply caused by strong foods and drinks, like garlic, onions and coffee. It can, however, be a sign of a more serious issue such as tooth decay or gum disease, so it’s important that you raise any concerns you might have with your dentist. If you’re worried about a bad smell in your mouth, try our top tips for freshening your breath …

1. Practice good oral habits
   

   Bacteria that is naturally present in the mouth works by breaking down particles of food that get trapped in the teeth, but this bacteria combined with decaying pieces of food can cause an unpleasant odour. For this reason, it’s best to brush and floss your teeth regularly so that you can remove small pieces of food from the mouth and teeth before they begin to decay. Brushing also removes plaque from the surface of the teeth. Plaque is a substance that can cause bad breath, as well as cavities and gum disease.

2. Clean your tongue
   

   The tongue can trap bacteria, which can cause unpleasant smells to develop in the mouth. Clean your tongue as part of your oral health routine by simply brushing it with a toothbrush or tongue scraper to remove bacteria. It can also be helpful to use an anti-bacterial mouthwash daily.

3. Eat healthy food
   

   Certain foods, such as garlic and onions, can cause bad breath, while drinks with a strong smell, like coffee can also cause an unpleasant odour in the mouth. Foods that are high in sugar and acids tend to increase the production of bacteria in the mouth, leading to an unpleasant smell. Try and limit your intake of acidic, sugary foods and drinks like sweet soda and candy, and rinse your mouth and brush your teeth after consuming strong smelling snacks.

4. Stay hydrated
   

   One of the easiest ways to prevent bad breath is to make sure that you stay properly hydrated throughout the day. This will help to keep your mouth clean and reduce unwanted odours. Try and remember to drink some water after every meal or snack to wash away left-over food particles and keep your mouth as moist as possible.

5. Go for a dental check-up
   

   It’s a good idea to visit your dentist for regular check-ups and cleans. This will help you avoid gum disease, which can cause bad breath. When plaque builds up on the teeth, it can harden and turn to tartar if it is not removed. Tartar can then irritate the gums, causing small pockets to form in which food, bacteria, and plaque can collect. By seeing your dentist regularly, you can ensure that your teeth remain clean and that gum disease is identified and treated as early as possible. We recommend that you come in for a professional check-up and clean every 6 months.

6. Keep your dentures and retainers clean
   

   Dentures and retainers that are not properly cleaned can become a breeding ground for bacteria and cause unpleasant smells in the mouth. Be sure to clean your dentures or retainer thoroughly and get rid of any food particles that may have become stuck during the day.

For more information on how to keep your breath smelling fresh, have a look here.

If it’s time you came in for a dental check-up and professional clean, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us to arrange an appointment. We treat all of our patients in a professional, friendly and relaxing environment.