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If you have halitosis, more commonly known as bad breath, it can be difficult to feel comfortable and confident when hanging out with loved ones, during work meetings, or going on dates. As frustrating as bad breath is, there are several things you can do to get rid of it. Read on to learn five tips that will help you eliminate bad breath or prevent it from occurring in the first place.
#1: Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Brush once in the morning and once at night for two minutes to remove plaque and food particles from your pearly whites. Don’t forget to brush your tongue or use a special scraping tool to get rid of bacteria that hide in the crevices. Additionally, floss before you go to bed to remove 40% of plaque and lessen your chances of developing gum disease, which can also lead to bad breath.
#2: Stay Hydrated
When you aren’t producing enough saliva, the resulting dry mouth can lead to bad breath. Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day to counteract this. You may also want to ask your dentist if it could be caused by an underlying oral or general health issue.
#3: Rinse with Mouthwash
Mouthwash masks bad breath, but it can also irritate your oral tissues. This may ultimately end up exacerbating the issue. Make your own mouthwash by adding a few drops of peppermint oil to a glass of water and gargling the concoction.
#4: Visit Your Dentist
Visiting your dentist for biannual checkups will allow your oral hygienist to thoroughly clean your teeth and around your gums, which can lessen your chances of developing bad breath. Additionally, during your exams, your dentist can keep an eye out for anything that may be causing this issue and administer the necessary treatment.
#5: Eat (and Drink) Well
Avoid eating foods like onions and garlic as these can lead to bad breath. Cut back on your consumption of sugary foods, which are also linked to this issue. Consider consuming foods and drinks that can freshen up your breath, including:
- Herbs and spices – Parsley, spearmint, cinnamon, coriander, cilantro, tarragon, eucalyptus, rosemary, and cardamom can all help with bad breath.
- Tea – Green tea’s antibacterial properties can eliminate the bacteria that cause bad breath. Black tea can also help keep plaque and bacteria under control.
- Yogurt – Studies show that the live active cultures in yogurt reduce bad breath. If it contains probiotics, this can also overpower the bacteria that cause it.
- Fruits and veggies – Apples, pears, celery, cucumbers, and carrots increase saliva production. Oranges, melons, and berries are rich in vitamin C, which can help keep bad breath-causing bacteria in check.
Don’t let bad breath get you down. With these helpful tips, your breath will be smelling fresh and clean in no time!
About the Practice
Island Daily Dental Care is here to help you learn the best ways to stop bad breath in its tracks. Their preventive services like checkups and cleanings can remove plaque and bacteria to give you a fresher, more confident smile in no time. If you’re interested in learning more about how to get rid of or prevent bad breath or want to schedule an appointment with Island Daily Dental Care, call their office at (631) 286-9000 or visit their website.