Stop relying on mint-flavored gum and banish bad breath for good! While there are many possible causes for bad breath—food, illness, dental hygiene—there are also many ways to remedy it.
Here’s a few ideas for combatting bad breath.
Maintain a consistent oral hygiene routine
Brush your teeth at least twice a day using fluoride toothpaste. And don’t forget to brush your tongue where bacteria can easily accumulate. It’s recommended that you floss daily to remove food particles and plaque between your teeth. Also, if you need some extra freshness, you can use an antimicrobial or fluoride mouthwash to kill bacteria and strengthen teeth.
Stay hydrated
Drink plenty of water to keep your mouth moist and promote saliva production which naturally cleanses your mouth of bacteria. It’s recommended that you drink approximately three liters a day.
Watch your diet
Limit or avoid foods and beverages known to cause bad breath. This includes garlic, coffee, alcohol, canned fish and onion, among others. Instead of reaching for those bad-breath culprits, try incorporating more fibrous foods into your diet like apples and carrots that help clean your teeth naturally.
Regular dental checkups
Schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings to detect and address any underlying issues that may be contributing to bad breath. Your dentist will be able to catch any oral health problems that may be contributing to chronic bad breath, so be sure to visit at least twice a year or every six months!
If you haven’t been to the dentist in a while, schedule an appointment with Jackson Dental! Call us at (573) 243-5200 or visit our office at 3100 E Jackson Blvd., Jackson, Mo., to get scheduled.