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Tooth decay and gum disease are the most common causes of halitosis or bad breath. These oral health problems can cause unpleasant odors due to infection, dry mouth, or plaque buildup. Other causes of halitosis include smoking, dry mouth, sinus infections, and gum disease.

Brush your teeth after you eat

Food particles can get caught between teeth and at the gum line, which can lead to tooth decay and bad breath over time. The best way to get rid of these food particles is by brushing them immediately after eating. At a minimum, you should brush twice a day for two minutes at a time using a soft-bristled toothbrush. If you have sensitive gums, try using a battery-powered toothbrush with a gentle vibration setting.

It’s best to use fluoride toothpaste as it helps to strengthen enamel and prevent damage to teeth. Fluoride is also good for your gums because it can fight bacteria that cause cavities. Talk to your dentist about the best products for your dental health needs at your next checkup.

Floss at least once a day

Flossing is the best way to remove food particles and plaque from between teeth and under the gumline. By flossing at least once a day, you can help prevent bad breath and maintain healthy teeth and gums for years to come.

Brush your tongue

Your tongue is actually home to a lot of bacteria, so it’s important to brush it clean regularly. Using a toothbrush or a tongue scraper, gently scrape your tongue from back to front just as you brush your teeth. Do this each time you brush and floss your teeth.

Clean dentures or dental appliances

If you wear removable dentures, it’s especially important to keep these clean to reduce bad breath and prevent mouth and throat infections. Rinse your dentures thoroughly with water or a denture cleaning solution after every meal, brush them gently with a toothbrush every day, and rinse them with clean water before putting them back in your mouth. Take them out every night to give your mouth a chance to rest from holding them in all day. Make sure you get a thorough checkup every six months so your dentist can make sure your dentures fit properly and aren’t causing you any pain or problems. Your dentist can also check for signs of oral cancer and other common oral issues, like gingivitis.

Avoid dry mouth

Saliva is a natural mouth cleanser and lubricates your gums to help them stay healthy. When your mouth is dry, your saliva production is reduced significantly or stops altogether. Your teeth are prone to decay when there is not enough saliva to keep harmful acids from attacking them. A dry mouth can also cause severe bad breath that stays around even after brushing. The side effects of dry mouth go beyond just your oral health; it can also increase your risk of disease and create a chronic sore throat. Some medications can cause dry mouth. Talk to your doctor if your medication is causing you to have symptoms like painful swallowing and dry mucous membranes. If you suspect you have a condition that causes dry mouth, see your dentist for a treatment plan.!

Adjust your diet

Your diet can have a significant impact on your dental health. Eating foods that are high in sugar can increase your risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Some foods are also more abrasive than others, so they may increase the risk of damage to your enamel as well. Try to avoid sugary foods and drinks, as well as chewy or sticky foods that can get stuck between your teeth. Other foods that can cause problems include anything with refined carbohydrates like white bread or pasta, soda, starchy foods like potato chips, and alcohol. If you must eat these types of foods, try to brush your teeth afterward or at least rinse your mouth with water. 

Schedule regular dental checkups

During your annual dental checkup, our dentist will clean your teeth to help prevent the occurrence of bad breath. We will also check for any signs of periodontal disease, tooth decay, and oral cancer. Your dentist may also suggest additional treatments and products help you maintain healthy teeth and gums in-between visits.

Rivermark Dental at Santa Clara is happy to educate and provide exceptional dental treatments to the community. Please schedule an appointment online or call us at 408-988-7788 to have a consultation with our dentist in Santa Clara, and we will be happy to assist you further.