Treating That Bad Breath

Most of us have to deal with bad breath from time to time and it can be tricky to keep it under control.  WebMD offers some helpful tips to ensure your breath stays fresh and void from that embarrassing smell.

First and foremost it’s crucial to practice good oral hygiene.  This includes brushing and flossing regularly, brush your tongue, use fluoride toothpaste, and remove dentures at night.  In addition, see your dentist at least twice a year for a full exam and professional cleaning.  The cosmetic dentist can detect any serious issues such as periodontal disease, dry mouth or gingivitis.

In terms of what you are putting in your mouth during the day, it’s very important to stop smoking or chewing tobacco if this is a habit of yours.  By drinking plenty of water you can avoid a dry mouth which contributes to bad breath.  Chewing sugarless gum can help keep saliva flowing which will keep bad breath at bay.  And keep track of the foods you are eating to see if there is any pattern to which ones may be contributing to your bad breath.  While one food may be a problem for one person, it may not be for another person so you need to understand how your diet is impacting your mouth.