Bad breath, or halitosis, can be an embarrassing condition. Thankfully, it is usually easy to treat. Below are a few ways that you can get rid of bad breath.

Brush your teeth twice daily

One of the most important things you can do for your oral health is to brush your teeth twice a day with a dentist-recommended toothpaste and toothbrush. We recommend using a soft-bristled brush with a small head. Replace your toothbrush every three to four months. Plaque can build up on your toothbrush over time if it's not thrown away frequently enough. If your toothbrush looks bristles down after being stored upright in a cup or holder for more than three months, throw it out and get a new one.

If you experience any discomfort while brushing, switch to a gentle manual toothbrush or a powered toothbrush with a pressure sensor built in. Talk to your dentist about other recommendations for the best type of toothbrush for your needs.

Floss at least once a day

Flossing is the single most important thing you can do to keep your gums healthy. By flossing daily, you remove all of the plaque and leftover food from between your teeth, where your toothbrush can't reach. This helps to reduce tooth decay, cavities, and other oral health issues caused by ignoring your teeth and gums.

Brush your tongue

The tongue is a breeding ground for bad-breath-causing bacteria. Gentle brushing with a toothbrush designed for this purpose can clean away this bacterial buildup. In addition to removing food particles and plaque from the surface of the tongue, this practice also stimulates the flow of saliva to further wash away bacteria and freshen breath. After you brush, rinse your mouth out with water to ensure no debris is left behind.

Use a tongue-scraper

Consider using a tongue scraper to remove the buildup of bacteria on your tongue's surface if you can't tolerate brushing it. Be sure to rinse the scraper in warm water every time you use it, and be sure to replace it regularly, as it will become more contaminated over time.

Clean dentures or dental appliances

Dentures or partial dentures should be thoroughly cleaned on a daily basis using a denture cleaner or mild soap and warm running water to rinse them off. Do not use toothpaste because it can scratch the finish on the dentures and cause damage. After cleaning and rinsing your dentures, soak them overnight in a cleanser solution. Your dentist can recommend a specific type of cleaning solution that will work best for your type of dentures. Additionally, schedule regular appointments with your dentist for adjustments to ensure the fit of your dentures remains comfortable and secure.

Prevent dry mouth

A dry mouth is a condition that occurs when there is not enough saliva to properly moisten your mouth. Saliva is important for neutralizing acid in the mouth and washing away food particles and other debris after eating. Your dentist may also recommend certain lifestyle changes that can help you manage dry mouth symptoms. If you smoke or regularly drink beverages like coffee, soda, and alcohol, you may find that these habits increase your risk of dry mouth. This is because smoking, drinking alcohol, and eating foods that are high in sugar and carbs all contribute to dry mouth. Changing your habits and avoiding these triggers can help prevent dry mouth. Talk to your dentist about other ways to manage the symptoms of dry mouth. 

Regularly get a new toothbrush

A soft-bristled toothbrush that is in good condition is essential for removing plaque from teeth. The American Dental Association recommends getting a new brush every three to four months and replacing it sooner if the bristles become frayed. You should also replace your toothbrush after you've been sick to prevent reinfection with germs. You can easily do this at home!

Schedule regular dental checkups

Schedule a comprehensive exam and professional teeth cleaning every six months to keep your mouth healthy and clean. Professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar that brushing may have missed. Plus, a thorough dental examination allows your dentist to check for early signs of gum disease and oral cancer.

By scheduling the proper preventative care visits with your dentist, you can ensure your breath stays fresh. 

At Point Loma Family Dentistry, our team is dedicated to providing you with excellent dental care in a relaxing atmosphere. To know more about treatments offered by our dentist, call us at (619) 223-3811 and schedule an appointment to visit the dental practice.