Tips To Prevent Bad Breath

Bad breath is halitosis, which is defined as an unpleasant odor in the mouth. Bad breath is caused by a variety of factors, including poor oral hygiene, food, tobacco products, dehydration, and underlying medical conditions.

What Causes Bad Breath?

Bad breath can be the result of a number of different factors. Here are the main culprits:

• Bacteria

The most common cause of bad breath is bacteria. These microscopic bugs live in the mouth, primarily on the tongue. When bacteria break down foods, they produce a foul-smelling chemical called Volatile Sulfur Compounds (VSCs). VSCs are the odor molecules responsible for bad breath.

• Dry mouth

Saliva helps wash away food particles and bacteria from the mouth. When there isn’t enough saliva, bacteria aren’t washed away as efficiently. This causes bad breath and can lead to cavities and gum disease.

• Food

Certain foods are more likely to cause bad breath than others. Garlic, onions, and coffee are just a few foods that can cause bad breath. Eating these foods regularly can cause the bacteria in your mouth to produce VSCs.

Tips To Prevent Bad Breath

• Brushing your teeth

Tooth decay, gum disease, and dry mouth can all cause bad breath. These things are often the result of poor oral hygiene.

Brushing and flossing your teeth every day, along with regular visits to the dentist for checkups and professional cleanings, can help keep your breath fresh and your mouth healthy.

• Flossing

Flossing is the most effective way to floss your teeth because it can reach the little nooks and crannies that your toothbrush just can’t.

• Avoiding tobacco

Tobacco contains chemicals that increase your risk of bad breath and gum disease. The chemicals in tobacco can irritate your gums, leading to redness and swelling. Tobacco also stains your teeth, which can make your smile less attractive.

• Regular dental cleanings

You can prevent bad breath by regularly visiting the dentist. During your dental cleaning, we will thoroughly clean your teeth, removing any plaque or tartar buildup. We will also give your teeth and gums a professional cleaning.

• Tongue scrapers

Tongue scrapers can help you get rid of food particles that may be trapped on your tongue. Tongue scrapers thus prevent bad breath by getting rid of food particles that are stuck on your tongue.

• Mouthwash

Mouthwash is a great way to fight halitosis. By rinsing your mouth with a specialty mouthwash, you can reduce the bacteria in your mouth that cause bad breath.

• Use a tongue scraper

Your dentist may also recommend a tongue scraper to gently remove bacteria from your tongue. Keeping your tongue clean will not only help prevent bad breath, but it may also lessen your chance of developing dental decay.

Wish to learn more tips to prevent bad breath? Schedule an appointment with Dr. Pham at Silver Summit Dental by calling us at (801) 542-0998, or visit our office at 5734 13400 S, Herriman, UT, 84096, between Monday to Friday for a consultation.