How To Get Rid Of Bad Breath?

The main reason for bad breath is bacteria in the mouth that act on the food we eat. They break down the food and all of this gets trapped in the crevices of the teeth, gums, and tongue. Following are some tips to lower the bacteria level in the mouth ensuring a fresh but also healthy breath!

1. Brushing, Flossing and Preventive cleanings

Brushing and Flossing is the most important way to get rid of bacteria. Do this after every meal and before you sleep. Twice a year routine checkups and professional cleaning will help to remove the tartar and bacteria from those hard-to-reach areas. Any broken and/or infected teeth, which trap bacteria/pus, also are detected in a timely manner and treated.

2. Change your toothbrush or head of the electric brush every 3 months

About 2-3 months of use usually causes the bristles to become frayed and harbor bacteria, which gets transferred to your mouth.   Make sure you’re storing your toothbrush in a place where the bristles have a chance to dry completely. They also lose their effectiveness after being frayed. So make sure to replace your toothbrush at the first sign of wear!

3. Scrape your tongue

The top of the tongue lodges a lot of bacteria which start working on the food eaten and cause odor. Instead of using the toothbrush, try using a tongue scraper that will meticulously remove all the bacteria. This must be done every time you brush your teeth.

4. Drink a lot of water 

Dehydration not only has its effects on the body but also causes bad breath because the bacteria stay put in the mouth. By sipping water throughout the day, you wash them away and keep the mouth clean.

5. Eating crisp, fresh food.

Have you noticed how fresh you feel after eating an apple? Fresh fruits and vegetables like apples, lettuce, and cucumber naturally clean the teeth. They are also natural antioxidants boosting your health in general, in turn improving your dental health.

6. Sugar-free gum

Chewing gum increases the flow of saliva in the mouth so bacteria are washed away. The key is to ensure that the gum is sugarless. Gum with sugar should be avoided because sugar ferments bacteria which will worsen the problem. Sugar-free gum also contains xylitol which is very helpful in avoiding decay!

7. Mouthwashes

Rinsing with mouthwashes also helps to combat bad breath. Alcohol-free mouthwashes are recommended as they do not dry the mouth.

8. Medical conditions and medications

Some diseases or conditions manifest in the mouth. GERD, metabolic disorders, cancer, and sinusitis are some of the conditions that can influence your breath. Some drugs given for high blood pressure, allergies, and depression may make your mouth dry which can cause it to smell. Any broken or infected tooth can cause abscess/pus to collect which contributes to bad breath as well. Try to eliminate all factors by getting your timely routine physical and dental checkups throughout the year.

9. Tobacco

Smoking is bad for the general health but also is bad for your breath and gums as it worsens gum disease.

10.Being happy 

Isn’t being happy the solution to all problems?