How Do I Eliminate Bad Breath? Helpful Tips

Bad breath or halitosis is usually caused by poor oral hygiene. There are other reasons for bad breath, including smoking habits, certain medications, and dry mouth. Here are a few tips to eliminate dental anxiety. 

Brush your teeth twice daily

The best way to get rid of bad breath is to brush and floss regularly. Brushing twice a day is enough to get rid of food particles and debris that can cause odor. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste that has fluoride in it. Gently brush your teeth for two minutes and then gently scrub your tongue as well.

Your tongue is coated in a thin layer of mucus that can get smelly if you don'tdon't clean it regularly. A toothbrush alone may not be able to remove bacteria from your tongue, so you may need an additional tool, such as a tongue scraper, to remove the layer of bacteria. Don't use too much force as you brush. Just a gentle scrubbing motion should be enough to get rid of the teeth plaque that causes bad breath.

Floss at least once a day

The American Dental Association recommends flossing once daily. However, some dentists say that you should floss between every meal for optimal oral hygiene. The act of flossing removes plaque formation and food debris from between the teeth that brushing can't reach. If left there, this bacteria can cause tooth decay and gum disease. Therefore, the ADA recommends that you floss to remove these substances from between the teeth and under the gum line. This reduces your risk of bad breath, cavities, and damage to the tooth enamel.

Brush your tongue

Brushing your tongue helps remove food particles and bacteria that can cause bad breath. Most people don't brush their tongues regularly enough, but doing so can help freshen your breath and prevent cavities.

Start by rinsing your mouth with water. Then place your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the tissue of your tongue and gently brush it in small circles for 30 seconds. Aim to brush as far back as possible. Rinse with mouthwash or water and repeat daily.

If brushing your tongue is difficult for you, try using a tongue scraper instead.

Avoid dry mouth

Saliva helps keep your oral tissues healthy by washing away food particles and neutralizing bacteria. It can also help your gums stay healthy by combatting gum disease. If you suffer from chronic dry mouth, your dentist may recommend lifestyle changes, medications, or other treatments to help treat it. You may also want to drink more water throughout the day to stay hydrated. Chronic dry mouth can increase your risk of cavities and tooth loss, so it's important to visit the dentist regularly for cleanings and maintenance of your dental health. 

Adjust your diet

Foods that are processed and rich in sugar can cause bad breath. These foods tend to linger in the mouth and increase bacteria growth. The extra food particles also promote tooth decay and gum disease. Try avoiding eating these foods and instead snack on fruits and other foods that are low in sugar. Also, be sure to drink plenty of water every day because water helps wash away extra food and bacteria from your mouth. Drinking water also helps to keep your body hydrated and helps keep your saliva production at a normal level. This helps keep your breath fresh and your mouth healthy.

Regularly get a new toothbrush

You should replace an old toothbrush every three to four months. A new toothbrush is more effective at cleaning your teeth and your gums than an old one. Old toothbrushes are a breeding ground for bacteria.

Schedule regular dental checkups

Schedule a regular checkup with your dentist every six months to prevent bad breath from developing in the first place and to keep your teeth and gums healthy, which will prevent other health issues as well. Regular checkups will also allow your dentist to diagnose any oral issues early on before they develop into more serious health concerns. If you already suffer from chronic bad breath, make an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible so they can determine the cause and recommend the best treatment for you.

If you are looking for an experienced dentist who can help you maintain good oral hygiene, schedule a consultation with our dentists at Eldridge Dental in Houston, Texas. You can reach us at (713) 983-0099 or visit our office at 6370 N. Eldridge Pkwy, Suite B, Houston, TX 77041.