Bad breath, also known as halitosis, is something all of us have to deal with from time to time. Whilst it can be caused by something as simple as a garlic-packed meal, it can also be a sign of a more serious oral health issue. Here are five ways to get rid of bad breath.
Have a thorough dental routine
The most common cause of bad breath is a build-up of plaque and bacteria in the mouth. The best way to guard against this is to uphold positive dental hygiene. Whilst you might think that you look after your teeth properly, here’s a thorough dental routine to check yourself against:
- Gently brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste (setting a timer makes sure that you reach the recommended time limit)
- Gently brush your tongue to remove any build-up, twice a day
- Floss in between your teeth, at least once a day
- Using a fluoride-based mouthwash, once a day
Don’t let your mouth dry out
Saliva is a crucial part of your oral hygiene – it helps to neutralise acids and clear away dead cells from the mouth. If your mouth isn’t moist enough, acids and cells cause bad-smelling bacteria. Drinking water and chewing gum are two great ways to stimulate the production of saliva – they also help to clear away any food particles and strong odours after you’ve eaten.
Stop smoking
Smoking is terrible for the health of your mouth – it damages gums, stains teeth and creates a foul-smelling residue on your tongue. There are specific dental products out there that attempt to deal with this issue but ultimately the only way to prevent it is to quit.
Change your diet
Your diet has a major impact on the way your breath smells. There are obvious foods which are more odorous, including onions, garlic and certain spices. Diets that are low in carbohydrates can also cause bad breath. Eating fibrous food such as carrots, celery and apples can help to stimulate saliva and freshen your mouth of food debris.
Consult your dentist
If you have tried multiple ways to deal with bad breath and still suffer from it, you should consult your dentist. Your halitosis could be a side effect of medication, the symptom of a mouth condition or an early sign that you have a serious oral health issue.
