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Good oral hygiene is one of the best things you can do for your overall health. Read on to learn a few tips to eliminate bad breath. 

Brushing your teeth

You should brush your teeth at least twice every day. Regular brushing removes plaque and bacteria from the surface of the tooth and gum line before it has a chance to build up and cause bad breath. You should also floss at least once per day to remove debris and food particles that get stuck between teeth. A clean mouth and healthy teeth are the best defense against bad breath.

When you brush, focus on the outer and inner surfaces of each tooth. Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle against the gums and move the bristles in a circular motion. Make sure to brush the tongue, the roof of the mouth, and the insides of your cheeks as well. This helps to freshen your breath and keep your mouth healthy.

Flossing

Flossing helps to remove food particles and plaque from between the teeth, where the toothbrush cannot reach. It is an important part of keeping your breath fresh and clean between brushings. However, it is also important to use the proper technique when flossing to prevent damage to the gums.

Tongue cleaning

Many people think that bad breath comes from what’s in their stomachs or throats. But most bad breath actually comes from the bacteria that grow on the tongue and in the crevices of the mouth. This is why dentists recommend brushing the tongue as a first step to fresher breath. After rinsing with water or a mouthwash, gently brush the tongue from back to front. Another effective method is to use an oral scraper or tongue cleaner to remove bacteria and food debris from the tongue. Choose a tongue cleaner with a flexible handle and soft head to avoid damaging the soft tissue of the tongue. Start at the back of your tongue and gently scrape forward until you’ve reached the tip. Rinse your oral tool after each pass and repeat until the sides of your tongue feel clean. Then rinse your mouth to remove any remaining debris.

Clean your dentures and dental appliances

Many types of permanent dentures are removable for cleaning. They must be removed to soak overnight in a cleaning solution. It’s important to clean your appliance thoroughly to avoid bad odors. If your appliance isn’t fitting correctly and causing discomfort, see your dentist for an adjustment. Maintaining good oral hygiene is still important with removable devices. Plaque can still build up on your gums and eventually lead to decay. When the gums become irritated from the denture rubbing against them, it may lead to sores or even infection. Your dentist will be able to recommend the best type of denture for your needs and lifestyle.

Quitting smoking 

The habit of smoking can dry out your mouth, cause gum disease, and put stain-causing chemicals on your teeth. All of these factors can lead to bad breath. Quitting smoking can help eliminate bad breath. 

Avoiding dry mouth

A dry mouth is caused by inadequate saliva production in your mouth. This can cause bad breath and an increased risk of tooth decay. Saliva washes away bacteria and food particles from your mouth to prevent both bad breath and gum disease. Without enough saliva, your mouth becomes an ideal breeding ground for bacteria, which can cause bad breath and other unpleasant symptoms.

Make sure you drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep yourself hydrated and to wash away food and bacteria. While drinking plenty of water is important, you should stay away from drinks that are high in sugar and acid, such as soda and alcohol. These can dry out your mouth even more and worsen the problem. Ask your dentist or doctor about other ways to combat dry mouth so you can keep your mouth healthy and clean!

Visit Jeanne V. Devi DDS at 595 E Colorado Blvd Suite 603, Pasadena, CA 91101, for the best dental care, or call us at (626) 795-2544 to book an appointment.