How can I help my bad breath?

The first and most important step to maintaining good smelling breath is to practice good oral hygiene. It is important that you brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste (once in the morning and once before bed) and that you floss once a day. Also, be sure to brush your tongue thoroughly all the way to the back to remove food particles. Scrapers are also available for your tongue, if desired. While mouthwashes are helpful for scent, they are basically temporary fixes. Careful care of your mouth is crucial to reducing bad breath. Also be sure to schedule regular cleanings and checkups at the dentist to make sure that your teeth and gums are healthy. Here are some other things that can help you prevent and treat bad breath:

 

·        Pay careful attention to your gums and tongue, not just to treat bad breath but also to protect your teeth.

·        Drink plenty of liquids. 

·        If you notice that your mouth feels dry, chew sugar-free gum (or something else non-sugary that will increase your saliva flow) for a minute or two. 

·        Eat fresh, fiber-filled vegetables.

·        Use a mouthwash that has been clinically shown to fight bad breath, not just something that masques it.

·        Clean your mouth after partaking of fish, meat, or a milk product.

·        Soak dentures in a denture solution overnight, unless you have been advised otherwise by your dentist.

·        Ask a family member to tell you when you are experiencing bad breath so that you can take note of it and address it.

·        Don’t drink too much coffee or use tobacco products. This can cause the problem and/or make it worse.

 

Attempting to take hold of this problem is a good goal, but don’t let your concern about having bad breath control your life. If you do have bad breath, don’t be depressed about it. Choosing to get help is the first giant step to tackling the problem; and you don’t have to let the bad breath ruin you.  With the help of others, including your dentist, you can address the problem.