How Do I Get Rid Of Bad Breath?

Bad breath, also known as halitosis, can be caused by poor oral hygiene, gum disease, dry mouth, or an underlying health condition. If you are struggling with chronic bad breath, here are a few helpful tips and tricks.

Brushing and flossing your teeth

Brushing and flossing twice a day for two minutes is essential if you want to get rid of bad breath and achieve optimal dental health. However, there’s more to brushing than just mindlessly scrubbing your teeth with toothpaste. Having the right technique is important so that you clean all surfaces of your teeth. When brushing your teeth, make sure to brush your tongue as well. Bacteria on your tongue can cause bad breath.

In addition to brushing your teeth, you should regularly floss to eliminate food and bacteria from getting stuck between your teeth and causing decay. This can lead to cavities and the need for fillings.

Brushing your tongue

The tongue is a breeding ground for germs and bacteria that can cause bad breath. Make sure you clean your tongue each time you brush your teeth. Your dental hygienist can give you tips on how to effectively brush your tongue without gagging.

Tongue scrapers are safe and effective to use in place of a traditional toothbrush. Talk to your dentist about the best technique to use for cleaning off all the food particles, bacteria, and dead cells from your mouth.

Cleaning dentures and other dental appliances

Dentures can build up plaque and bacteria just like teeth do. If you never clean your dentures, they can cause bad breath and even lead to gum disease. Be sure to brush and clean them daily using denture cleaners and the tips outlined in our article above for how to brush your teeth properly. It is also important to schedule regular cleanings at a dental office to ensure your oral appliance is working properly and that you are maintaining your oral health.

Avoiding dry mouth

A dry mouth is the absence of saliva in a person’s mouth. Saliva is necessary for maintaining a healthy oral environment as it washes away food debris and bacteria from your mouth and neutralizes acids in your mouth. It also aids in digesting food and prevents bad breath by washing odor-causing bacteria off your tongue. As levels of saliva decrease, you will begin to develop tooth decay, bad breath, and gum disease. Drink water throughout the day to stay hydrated and avoid dry mouth.

Regularly getting a new toothbrush

You should replace your toothbrush every three to four months or as soon as you notice wear on the bristles. As the bristles become frayed and worn, they are less effective at cleaning your teeth, and they can also cause irritation. A new toothbrush will help to keep your mouth healthy and clean by effectively removing plaque from your teeth. 

Scheduling regular dental checkups

It is important to routinely visit your dentist to maintain your oral health and also avoid developing other health issues and bad breath. Regular visits allow your dental care provider to check for cavities and other signs of damage while also giving you guidance on best practices to keep your mouth healthy and cavity-free. The American Dental Association recommends visiting the dentist twice a year for routine cleanings and exams. 

For a comfortable dental experience, please reach out to our dental practice in Manteca, CA, to have a consultation with our family dentist. Please call us at (209) 823-9218 or schedule an online consultation, and we'll guide you further.