Bad breath, or halitosis, is caused by a variety of factors. However, the most common cause is bacteria. When food particles are left on the teeth, bacteria begin to grow. The bacteria produce volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs), which create bad odors. Listed below are some tips to prevent halitosis.
Brush your teeth after you eat
Bacteria in your mouth cause bad breath. To get rid of the bacteria that causes bad breath, you need to brush your teeth immediately after eating or at least twice a day. Be sure to brush for at least two minutes each time you brush so that you remove all the bacteria and food particles from your mouth.
Floss at least once a day
Although brushing and using mouthwash are two important steps in ridding yourself of bad breath, often, they are not enough on their own. When you brush, only the surface of your teeth gets clean. Food particles and other leftover gunk can build up between teeth and gum pockets, contributing to tooth decay and gum disease. This is where flossing comes in to help! By flossing at least once a day, you can rid your mouth of the food debris and bacteria that contribute to bad breath.
Brush your tongue
Cleaning your tongue is a simple way to remove odor-causing bacteria and freshen your breath at the same time. Use a soft-bristled brush and gently clean the surface of your tongue. Switch sides and repeat to remove any debris and plaque that may be causing bad breath. Afterward, rinse your mouth with water or a mouthwash that contains breath-freshening ingredients.
Clean dentures or dental appliances
When you don't clean your dentures or dental appliances, food particles and plaque can build up on them. Bacteria thrive in this environment and cause bad breath. The buildup on your dental appliances can also contribute to gum disease and tooth decay. Remember to clean your oral appliances and replace them if they are broken or damaged.
Schedule regular dental checkups
Scheduling regular dental checkups is important for your oral health. During your visit, our dentist will clean and polish your teeth and gums. This removes any leftover food particles and plaque from your mouth that your toothbrush may have missed. Regular visits also help us identify any problems that may be causing your bad breath so we can treat them as soon as possible.
Avoid dry mouth
A dry mouth occurs when there is not sufficient saliva in the mouth to wash away harmful bacteria and wash away food particles after eating. Without enough moisture, bacteria can flourish in your mouth and cause bad breath. It can also lead to tooth decay and gum disease.
If you suffer from a dry mouth, drink plenty of water throughout the day to prevent your mouth from becoming too dry. You should also chew sugarless gum to stimulate your salivary glands. Speak with your dentist about how to get rid of bad breath caused by dry mouth so that you can achieve a beautiful smile.
Adjust your diet
Make sure to stick to a healthy diet full of healthy whole foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Avoiding foods that are high in sugar can help to prevent tooth decay and cavities. You should also limit your intake of acidic foods that can erode tooth enamel and cause bad breath. If you snack on sugary or acidic foods, make sure to rinse your mouth out with water or brush your teeth afterward!
To learn more about our dental procedures, call us at (909) 314-1783 and schedule an appointment with our dentist in Fontana, CA.
8275 Sierra Ave STE 102, Fontana, CA 92335
