Bad breath, also known as halitosis, is a problem that affects many people. The causes of bad breath are many, but with a few easy preventative measures, you can keep your breath smelling fresh and your mouth healthy and clean.
How to Prevent Bad Breath
Brushing and Flossing – You’ve heard it before, but it can’t be understated how important brushing and flossing are for your dental health, including your breath. Brush and floss regularly, and you’ll see the difference it makes in your breath.
Tongue Scraping – Tongue scrapers are designed to remove the film of bacteria that forms on your tongue. These bacteria contribute to bad breath, so a tongue scraper can help you freshen up.
Mouthwash – Mouthwash kills bacteria in your mouth and gets to places where your toothbrush can’t. Even swishing with plain water after a meal will help remove food particles that contribute to bacteria buildup.
Sugarless Gum – Gum chewing aids in the production of saliva, which helps defend against plaque and bacteria. Make sure you choose sugarless gum with xylitol. While mints may feel like they make your breath fresher, in reality they’re just masking the bad breath.
Avoid Certain Foods – Foods like onions and garlic inevitably lead to bad breath, so try to avoid them if you can. Tobacco products should also be avoided.
Keep Your Mouth Moist – Dry mouth contributes to the production of bacteria and consequently bad breath. Chew sugarless gum or drink water to keep your mouth moist. If you have chronic dry mouth, or chronic bad breath, see your dentist for further consultation.
About Olney Dental
Olney Dental has been providing comprehensive dental care for residents of Olney and the surrounding area since 1985. We’re conveniently located on the campus of Montgomery General Hospital, and provide care for all ages for children to adults and seniors. We’re also independently owned by our dentists, which allows us be patient driven in our approach to dentistry. Your smiles make us smile! You can also connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, Pinterest, and YouTube.
Source
http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/healthy-mouth-14/your-healthy-mouth/get-rid-bad-breath