Bad breath happens to everyone once in a while. It’s nothing to be ashamed about! But if it’s a persistent issue, it can certainly become a source of anxiety or embarrassment. It can also be indicative of an underlying problem — one that requires a plan of action and can’t be solved with a simple “quick fix.”
To keep your breath consistently fresh, follow these eight tips for stopping bad breath in its tracks!
First and Foremost: Don’t Slack on Brushing and Flossing
Good oral hygiene is a must! If plaque, food particles, and other nasties are left to build up within your teeth and gums, bad breath is inevitable. If you have trouble remembering to floss regularly, leave a glass cup of floss picks visible on your bathroom counter, and get into the habit of doing a quick floss as soon as you see them.
Scrape Your Tongue
A tongue scraper or a toothbrush with a textured backside are both useful tools for combatting bad breath. Scrape every time you brush to clear away debris. If you notice that your tongue is consistently discolored, even after routine scraping and cleaning, it could be indicative of a bigger issue. Make an appointment with one of our dentists if you have any concerns!
Embrace Probiotics and Prebiotics
Bad breath doesn’t always start in the mouth — sometimes it starts in the gut! An imbalance of bacteria in the gut biome, and gastrointestinal disorders such as GERD, Celiac Disease, or Crohn’s, can all contribute to a less-than-pleasant odour. Prebiotic and probiotic supplements, as well as fermented foods like kefir and kimchi are wonderfully effective for restoring the balance of healthy bacteria in your gut.
Stay Hydrated
Dry mouth is a major contributor to bad breath, so drinking plenty of water every day will help keep things fresh. If you consume coffee or alcohol, drink water afterwards to counter the dehydrating effects of those drinks.
Avoid Frequently Using Alcohol-Based Mouthwashes
Alcohol-based mouthwashes can sometimes work as a quick-fix for freshening breath after a strong-smelling meal, but overuse can do more harm than good. Not only does alcohol dry out the mouth — which of course, leads to bad breath — but it can also disrupt the healthy balance of bacteria in your mouth.
Cleanse Your Mouth After Eating Pungent Foods
There’s no need to give up on onions and garlic! Just swish your mouth with some water and baking soda or eat an apple to help clear away the strong scent.
Pay Attention to Signs of Gum Disease
Sore, bleeding gums can indicate disease, which often causes an unpleasant odour. Make an appointment with your dentist to assess the issue, or you could end up dealing with health consequences that are much worse than bad breath!
Treat Sinus and Throat Infections Promptly
The nose, sinuses, mouth, and throat are all connected, and infections in any of these regions can contribute to bad breath. Make an appointment with your doctor to pinpoint the issue and determine an appropriate treatment.
Has bad breath become a persistent problem for you? Contact our team at Kildonan Crossing Dental Clinic, and we’ll help you create an action plan!