How to Battle Bad Breath

It is estimated that one in four people worldwide has bad breath at any given point, and if you’ve ever experienced it, you know there’s no denying that it can be a big blow to your confidence. So, how do you combat it? Your dentist in Jacksonville can explain the different causes of bad breath and how to fight it.

What Causes Bad Breath?

One of the primary keys to battling bad breath is understanding what the catalyst is. Here is a list of common causes of bad breath:

• Bacteria buildup in the mouth or on the tongue due to not brushing or flossing regularly
• Tooth decay or gum disease
• Certain strong odor foods like garlic and onions
• Tobacco products
• Dry Mouth
• Infections in the mouth
• Bacteria build-up in the tonsils
• Diseases such as cancers or metabolic disorders

These are the primary contributors to bad breath, but fortunately, there are ways to combat them. Keep reading to find out how!

How to Stop Bad Breath

Bad breath can sneak up on you, but if you follow these steps below, you’re far more likely to be able to avoid it:

• Floss every day. This removes the odor-causing debris between your teeth that your toothbrush can’t always get to.
• Brush or scrape your tongue. It is common for bacteria from foods and beverages to build upon the tastebuds and folds of your tongue. If you prefer not to use your toothbrush to cleanse your tongue, you can invest in a tool called a tongue scraper.
• Use an antibacterial mouthwash. It’s important to keep in mind that while this will help cleanse odor-causing bacteria from the mouth, it will not solve the issue if there is an underlying oral condition.
• Avoid tobacco products. Tobacco dries out your mouth, and with the lack of saliva to rinse away bacteria, it can build up and cause a foul odor.
• Drink water. In addition to being great for your whole body, water helps wash away bacteria in your mouth and throat, helping them stay clean and keeping your breath fresh.
• Chew sugar-free gum. This helps stimulate saliva flow, and the more saliva you have, the better rinsed out your mouth will be.
• Visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and check-ups. Seeing your dentist on a regular basis can help them to detect early signs of dental issues or gum disease that can lead to chronic bad breath. It also allows them to deep clean your teeth and remove any plaque buildup that can also contribute to bad odors.

If you struggle with bad breath, try the above tips. If you still find that you need a change, make a plan to visit your dentist so that you can leave with fresher breath and more confidence!

About the Practice

Dr. Sol G. Brotman leads a team of experts at his private practice, and they are committed to helping each of their patients maintain optimal oral health. He has completed multiple hours of continuing education and co-authored a research article in the Journal of the American Dental Association. His primary concern is ensuring that every patient is comfortable at his office, and he loves building long-lasting relationships with the families he cares for. Are you ready to talk about fresher breath? Schedule an appointment online or call us at (904) 396-4091