What can be more embarrassing than bad breath? Well, a lot of things. But foul mouth odor is definitely high on the list. If you’re dealing with bad breath, take heart – there are ways to get rid of it. Here are a few helpful tips:
- Up your brushing and flossing game.When plaque builds up on your teeth, it creates bacteria that causes bad breath. If you haven’t been great about brushing twice a day and flossing regularly, it’s time to change that. Just be careful not to brush with too much gusto, which can erode tooth enamel and make your teeth more prone to decay.
- Swish with mouthwash or water.Mouthwash is an effective tool at getting rid of bacteria, not to mention it has a refreshing, minty taste. Just be sure to buy mouthwash specifically designed to kill germs that cause bad breath. Drinking and rinsing with plain water can also refresh your mouth, especially in the morning and after you eat to get rid of lingering food particles.
- Watch what you eat. Some foods like garlic and onions tend to linger even after you brush. That’s because garlic and onions contain components that travel to the blood stream and lungs, which you then breathe out. Look for raw crunchy foods instead, which are great at cleaning your teeth naturally. These include apples, carrots, celery, cranberries and walnuts. Eating yogurt is another great way to help reduce bad breath because of the active cultures it contains.
- Maintain healthy gums. One of the biggest culprits for bad breath is gum disease. That’s because bacteria invades your gums and creates pockets at the base of your teeth to create a foul odor. Your first line of defense against gum diseases is to maintain good oral hygiene.
- Visit your doctor.Sometimes even your best efforts can’t stop bad breath. When this is the case, it’s time to see your doctor. It could be a sign of a medical condition.
Learn more about beating bad breath. Contact Dr. Stanly Hirst, DDS, and Bethany Jensen, DDS, at Broadway Family Dentistry today by calling 701-839-1299 to schedule a check-up.
