Halitosis, more commonly known as bad breath, is a very common problem and can be quite embarrassing for many people. It may be caused by a range of reasons, such as bad mouth health, different foods you eat, and even some severe ongoing sicknesses. In this guide, we will discover solutions provided by a dental practice in Glen Oaks, NY for how to stop bad breath and prevent it, meaning you can maintain fresh breath all day long.
Causes of Bad Breath
Understanding the causes is crucial when it comes to preventing and treating bad breath. More often than not, the reason for bad breath is inadequate oral hygiene and fewer rinses in water after food ingestion which can cause the remaining food particles to bond with volatilizing gasses like those produced by bacteria on your tongue, gum, or teeth. Such bacteria generate sulfur-based chemicals and those things smell pretty bad. Other causes include:
- Dry Mouth: Saliva is the mouth’s primary defense against bacteria, carrying enzymes and antibodies to help cleanse itself of food particles and reduce acids produced by bacteria over time. Less saliva is produced due to dry mouth, or xerostomia, which can cause bad breath.
- Infections: Sinus infections are a common cause, but other medical conditions including diabetes, GI problems, and even liver or kidney diseases can be associated with malodor.
- Smoking and Tobacco Use: Besides causing bad breath, smoking and tobacco use can also lead to gum disease as well as many other dental and oral health problems.
Preventing Bad Breath
1. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene:
- Brush and Floss every day: Always brush your teeth twice a day, and floss every day to take away food particles and also plaque.
- Brush Your Tongue: Bacteria and remnants of food can gather on your tongue and contribute to bad breath. Gently clean your tongue with a tongue scraper or a toothbrush that has one on the back of it daily.
2. Stay Hydrated:
- Water: This will assist in avoiding dry mouth, and will flush away any leftover food particles and bacteria. Try to consume at least by consuming 8 glasses of water a day.
- Chew Sugarless Gum: Chewing sugarless gum can help stimulate saliva production, which with every bite helps to neutralize acids and clear away particles of food.
3. Watch Your Diet:
- Stay Away from Strong-Smelling Foods: Have fewer of these contributors to bad breath (garlic, onions, and hot dishes). Eat crisp, fresh foods like fruits and veggies that naturally clean your teeth in the eating process.
- Maintain a proper diet rich in vitamins and minerals that are good for your oral health. Be sure to include vitamin C, calcium, and fiber in your meals for healthy gums and teeth.
4. Quit Smoking and Tobacco Use:
If you smoke or use tobacco, try to quit. There are plenty of ways to quit smoking — from support groups and cessation programs that will help you kick the habit down to freshening your breath.
5. Regular Dental Check-Ups:
Make it a point to see a dentist for dental check-ups and cleanings every six months. A tooth doctor can help identify and treat any root causes for bad breath such as gum disease or cavities.
Although bad breath can be a difficult problem to deal with, you can acquire and keep fresh breath with the right preventative and treatment methods. You may successfully avoid and treat bad breath by maintaining proper oral hygiene, drinking enough water, monitoring your diet, stopping smoking, and scheduling frequent dental visits. Consult your Glen Oaks, NY dentist for expert guidance if you are experiencing recurrent halitosis so that you may address any underlying concerns and restore your confidence.