5 Tips to Avoid Bad Breath
In the majority of cases, bad breath (also known as halitosis) isn’t a serious condition on its own. However, it can be an embarrassing and bothersome problem for the estimated 2.4% of adults that suffer from it.
If you’re looking to prevent bad breath, it’s crucial to maintain a good dental care routine — but there are also other ways (not related to oral hygiene) to avoid bad breath as well. Read on for our best tips for staying away from halitosis.
Brush your teeth (and tongue) correctly
It’s no surprise that brushing your teeth properly is the best defence against bad breath. Dentists recommend brushing twice per day (generally morning and night), for two minutes at a time. During that time, don’t forget to give your tongue a thorough scrub as well.
While brushing may seem like a simple task, many people are surprised to find out that they do it incorrectly. For the most complete clean, you’ll want to brush each quarter of your mouth for 30 seconds at a time, using the right tools (including a soft-bristled toothbrush and dentist-approved toothpaste).
Don’t forget to floss
Along with brushing, flossing once per day is imperative to keeping bad breath at bay. Unfortunately, many people don’t floss enough — or even at all. However, studies have shown that improper or insufficient flossing causes bacteria to collect inside your mouth, which can lead to bad breath and other unpleasant conditions.
If you tend to avoid flossing because you’re not a fan of traditional string floss, try using a flosser pick or a water-based tool. You might find these modern tools easier to maneuver in between your gums and teeth.
Drink enough water and limit dehydrating beverages
Everyone knows that drinking the right amount of water has its health benefits. But did you know that staying hydrated can even help you fend off bad breath?
When you’re dehydrated, your body doesn’t create as much saliva, which is essential for cleaning your mouth. As a result, bacteria can grow and contribute to foul-smelling breath. It’s a similar situation if you have a condition that impacts your salivary glands or if you’ve recently ingested lots of alcohol or caffeine, both of which can dry out your mouth.
Quit smoking
Smoking can have devastating impacts on the body, contributing to everything from cancer to heart disease. And in terms of your oral health, smoking tobacco can also lead to bad breath and stained teeth.
Your mouth becomes drier when you smoke, which can lead to halitosis (as we’ve discussed above). At the same time, smokers are at a higher risk for calculus (or tartar) build-up within their mouths, worsening bad breath.
Visit your dentist
Finally, regular visits to your dentist can help you stay on top of any oral health concerns (including halitosis). During your appointment, your dentist can advise you on the best steps to prevent or eliminate bad breath.
Looking for a new dentist in Parramatta? Reach out to our friendly team at Dental Avenue Parramatta today. Our practice offers high-quality dental care and a strong commitment to creating a comfortable environment for all of our patients.
Schedule an appointment with our Parramatta dentist by calling 1300 315 540 or visiting our website.
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