5 Ways to Prevent Bad Breath

Have you ever talked to someone and their breath immediately made you want to back away? Having bad breath, medically known as halitosis, is a common issue many people face. From 50-60% of adults in the United States suffer from halitosis; this problem affects your confidence and how others perceive you. Fortunately, there are simple steps you can take to prevent bad breath and freshen up your breath. Follow these five tips to keep your breath fresh!

Brush and floss regularly
The first step in preventing bad breath is to maintain good oral hygiene, an obvious solution. Brush your teeth after eating and floss at least once a day to remove any food particles that may be lodged between your teeth. You should also brush your tongue as bacteria tend to accumulate on your tongue which can also cause bad breath.

Stay hydrated
One of the main causes of bad breath is a dry mouth; dry mouth can be caused naturally by aging or by medications or conditions like diabetes. Drinking water helps to keep your mouth moist and promotes the production of saliva, which helps to wash away bacteria and food particles. You should try and drink at least 6-8 glasses of water a day to stay hydrated and prevent bad breath.

Chew sugarless gum
Chewing sugarless gum helps to promote the production of saliva, which helps to wash away bacteria that cause bad breath. Gum with xylitol, a sugar substitute, can also help to prevent the growth of bacteria in your mouth.

Rinse Your Mouth Far More Often
Rinsing your mouth with water after meals helps flush away the particles that can cause bad breath. However, mouthwash is even more effective since it contains antimicrobial agents that kill the bacteria that cause bad breath and help maintain fresher breath for a more extended period. You can also use natural remedies for bad breath, such as apple cider vinegar, baking soda, or tea tree oil, or add a few drops to a cup of water and rinse your mouth with it.

Visit your dentist regularly
Regular dental check-ups are important to maintain good oral hygiene. Your dentist can detect and treat dental problems that may be causing bad breath; among them may be fractured fillings or dental decay. Dental hygienists can also clean your teeth professionally, removing any plaque or tartar buildup contributing to bad breath.

Bad breath can be embarrassing and uncomfortable, but it’s easy to prevent. By following the tips discussed in this blog post, you can ensure that your breath is fresh and clean. Maintaining good oral hygiene, staying hydrated, chewing sugarless gum, watching what you eat, and visiting your dentist regularly are important steps in preventing bad breath. So, don’t let bad breath hold you back, and take charge of your oral hygiene today!

Call Dr. Marsh and his team at ClevelandSmiles at 440-461-1003 to schedule your appointment today!