Ask a Dentist: Are There Oral Hygiene Regiments That Help Avoid Halitosis?

Halitosis (bad breath) can be caused by a wide range of things. It can result from poor oral hygiene that enables oral bacteria to build up and create volatile sulfur gases or dental issues like tooth decay and gum disease. People with halitosis often make poor impressions when they interact with others. 

Oral hygiene habits that prevent and treat halitosis

Constantly having bad breath can ruin a person’s relationships because it becomes a huge part of what other people choose to focus on. Fortunately, there are a few simple things that anyone can do to keep their breath smelling fresh. 

1. Practice good oral hygiene

The American Dental Association recommends brushing at least two times a day to keep the teeth and gums healthy. The most effective time to brush teeth is right before going to bed because oral bacteria cause more damage during sleep due to reduced saliva flow. Brushing right before going to bed also helps reduce bacteria in the mouth and removes food particles that these microorganisms can convert into acids and plaque.

Flossing once a day is just as important when it comes to keeping the mouth smelling fresh. Food particles can get stuck in interdental spaces, and they can stay there for weeks at a time if the person does not floss. Bad breath is often caused by decaying food particles stuck between teeth. Flossing gets rid of debris in interdental spaces, promoting fresh breath.

2. Drink more water

Being adequately hydrated promotes saliva flow, which helps keep the breath smelling fresh. Saliva serves as a natural mouth cleanser, removing bacteria, acids, and food particles from teeth surfaces and gum tissues. Water performs the same function and cleans the mouth and hydrates the body so it can make more saliva. Dehydration leads to reduced saliva flow and dry mouth, an environment that enables oral bacteria to thrive.

3. Use mouthwash

A quality antibacterial mouthwash goes a long way when it comes to keeping the mouth smelling fresh. Mouthwash reduces bacteria populations in the mouth and cleans the tight spaces that brushing and flossing miss. Many mouthwash brands also contain fragrances that help keep the mouth smelling fresh. Mouthwash should be used twice a day for optimal results.

4. Clean your tongue

Bacteria in the mouth tend to build up on the tongue and create substances that give off an awful odor. Cleaning the tongue every brushing session reduces the number of bacteria in the mouth, making it easier to keep the mouth smelling fresh.

Put bad breath behind you

Are you tired of being known for having bad breath? Give us a call or stop by our Columbia clinic to explore treatment options with our dentist.

Request an appointment here: https://davisanddingle.com or call Davis & Dingle Family Dentistry at (803) 567-1804 for an appointment in our Columbia office.

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