How Can You Avoid Bad Breath Throughout the Day?

Bad breath is a common condition that affects more than 50% of the general population. Bad breath is not only psychologically distressing but can also affect personal relationships and quality of life. There are several underlying causes of bad breath which can include gum disease like gingivitis and periodontitis, and poor oral hygiene.

However, by following a few simple home remedies and maintaining good oral hygiene you can fix your bad breath. Here are eight simple ways to get rid of bad breath:

1. Regular Brushing

If you want to avoid bad breath throughout the day, it is essential that you brush your teeth twice a day, for at least two to three minutes to get rid of any food debris and prevent plaque formation. The build-up of plaque develops bacteria that cause bad breath. If you’re wondering what to do for bad breath, remind yourself to brush twice daily!

2. Don’t Forget to Floss and Rinse

Besides brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing is equally important. Flossing regularly will remove food debris and prevent bacteria-harboring plaque from building up between your teeth, where your toothbrush can’t reach. If you’re looking to eliminate bad breath, floss more often! Additionally, rinsing your mouth daily with a good mouthwash can kill bacteria that cause bad breath. It also leaves a fresh minty taste in your mouth, making you feel fresh. It is recommended that you rinse your mouth with water after every meal to wash away any food particles that may be stuck in your teeth.

3. Don’t Neglect Your Tongue

While brushing and flossing are essential, we often forget that the tongue can harbor bacteria that cause bad breath. For optimum oral hygiene, make it a habit to brush your tongue and get rid of debris or bacteria building up in the taste buds. You could also invest in a tongue scraper to clean your tongue and prevent bad breath.

4. Visit Your Dentist Regularly

To make sure you are taking every step necessary in maintaining good oral hygiene, you must regularly visit your dentist. Along with a regular clean-up of your teeth, which you should ideally get done at least twice a year, your dentist will also be able to check your teeth and gums and make sure they are healthy. If you have a persisting condition of bad breath, your dentist will be able to figure out the underlying cause. It could be an infection or gum disease, and your dentist will prescribe you treatment or medications accordingly.

5. Quit Smoking

If you want to improve your breath, avoid smoking and consuming tobacco-based products. Smoking not only affects your overall health and wellbeing but also causes bad breath. Tobacco tends to affect the moisture in the mouth, leaving it dry and lingering with a stale, unpleasant odor.

6. Avoid Foods That Can Cause Bad Breath

A lot of common foods like onion and garlic can turn your breath sour. The ingredients in these foods travel into your lungs via the bloodstream, resulting in bad breath. Make sure to avoid eating such foods before you head out for work, to meet friends, or to any close gathering.

7. Drink More Water

Staying hydrated is one of the best ways to prevent bad breath. Make sure you drink at least 6 to 8 glasses of water each day to prevent dry mouth. Drinking water not only helps retain the moisture in your mouth but also keeps the salivary glands engaged. It cleanses your teeth and tongue from any bacteria or food particles that may have been left behind.

8. Eat Raw, Crunchy Foods

Raw, crunchy foods like vegetables and fresh fruits help promote the production of saliva, keeping food odors at bay and cleansing the tongue, gums and teeth of bacteria and food debris that cause bad breath. Consume foods like apples, celery, carrots, cranberries, walnuts, cinnamon, and yogurt to prevent bad breath.

We genuinely care about your health. Our practice, Smile Arizona Dentistry, is located in south Scottsdale, AZ, helps you maintain optimum oral care and health. Contact us today to schedule an appointment for your routine care and hygiene visit!