Bad breath (or halitosis) is a common issue for millions of individuals and can have a number of different causes, from simply not drinking enough water to chronic conditions such as gum disease or other orthodontic problems. For those who suffer from this condition, we have 5 tips that can help you eliminate the problem and gain your oral health back.
#1 Brush and Floss
According to the American Dental Association (ADA), it is recommended that you brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes help to remove food particles that could otherwise cause halitosis due to bacteria growth. Including flossing into your teeth cleaning regimen helps to eliminate food particles from hard-to-reach spaces near the gums. Don’t forget to brush your tongue, as taste buds and folds can collect bacteria.
#2 Avoid Usage of Tobacco
Cigarette, cigars, and other forms of tobacco use are known factors for causing bad breath issues. Not only is it an unpleasant smell on its own, but tobacco use can also cause dry mouth which can worsen the problem.
#3 Drink Plenty of Water
Dry mouth (or xerostomia) is a common problem, often caused by not enough water consumption. How much water should you drink? It is recommended that an individual drink about 64 ounces of water per day, eight glasses of 8-ounces. Water helps to wash away food and bacteria, as well as prevent dry mouth.
#4 Healthy Snacking
Snacks that are healthy has many benefits, not just for overall nutritional intake, but it can also help to stimulate healthy saliva production that will keep your mouth from becoming dry. Foods such as raw carrots, celery, and apples help to keep other foods and bacteria from building up on your tongue and teeth. Not maintaining a regular diet can also cause increased acid in the stomach, which can trigger bad breath. If snacks are not within reach, you can chew on a piece of sugarless gum to provide the same benefits.
#5 Contact a Halitosis Specialist in Kansas City
The ADA recommends that individuals see a dentist for a routine cleaning and examination twice a year. Having your teeth cleaned thoroughly will help remove tartar and plaque, and a dental examination will help to locate any potential issues that could be causing chronic bad breath.
There are a number of issues that can cause halitosis. If this problem continues, it can be an indication of gum disease caused by plaque and bacteria buildup. If your dentist believes that the problem is not oral hygiene related, you may be recommended to see a physician or specialist.