Dentist Near Me
Halitosis, commonly known as bad breath, is commonly
associated with certain foods. Garlic, onion, and cabbage can all cause a foul
odor and taste for several hours after you’ve eaten them. This type of
temporary halitosis is easily solved by avoiding the foods that cause it.
However, in some cases bad breath is a chronic problem that simply changing
your diet won’t solve.
Long-term bad breath is caused by the presence of bacteria
in your mouth. These bacteria are most often found on the back of the tongue
and thrive when your mouth is dry. There are a variety of ways you can help
reduce or eliminate chronic bad breath. Some of these include:
Practice good oral
hygiene.
Brush your teeth after you eat as often as possible and at
least twice daily. Clean between your teeth using dental floss or another
interdental (between teeth) cleaner at least once each day. Food particles
between teeth will break down slowly and cause unpleasant odors and tastes.
Brush your tongue.
Even if you brush and floss your teeth as recommended, the
bacteria causing your bad breath may remain on your tongue. Use a tongue
scraper or toothbrush to gently scrape away any particles of food or bacteria
every time you brush. For best results, place the scraper or brush as far back
as you can manage without gagging. This will generally become easier over time.
Keep well-hydrated.
Dry mouths allow bacteria to thrive. By drinking plenty of
water, you can help prevent the bacteria growth and reduce or stop bad breath.
Avoid bad breath
triggers.
Onions, garlic, cabbage, coffee, and tobacco products are
all known to cause bad breath.
Chew sugarless gum.
By chewing sugarless gum, you increase saliva production and
keep your mouth moist. This helps slow or prevent bacteria growth, minimizing
chances of bad breath.
Improve your diet.
Crunchy fruits and vegetables, yogurt, and foods rich in
vitamins C and D all work to prevent the growth of bacteria, keep your mouth
cleaner, and increase saliva flow.
See your dentist.
Follow your regular schedule of dental hygiene appointments
and exams. If you have tried the tips above without improvement, make an
appointment for an exam to see if there may be an underlying condition that
requires treatment. Treat any oral illnesses, such as decayed teeth, periodontal
(gum) disease, or infection.
For more information about the potential causes and treatments for halitosis, contact our office.
12821 Jefferson Avenue
Newport News, VA 23608
Phone: (757) 874-7155