If you frequently deal with bad breath, you are not alone. Halitosis, another name for bad breath, affects nearly one in four people and is often treatable with simple changes to your oral care routine. If you want to tackle the issue head-on and improve your confidence, the friendly dentists from Cherry Hill Dentistry in Lincoln, NE, have the advice you need.

Causes of Bad Breath

Typically, bad breath boils down to poor oral hygiene. Even if you brush several times a day, for example, if you fail to floss, you still aren’t removing plaque from nearly one-third of your teeth’s total surface area. In some cases, though, bad breath is caused by oral conditions like gum disease. Other health conditions like diabetes, malnutrition, or cancer may also cause bad breath.  

Cures

Contrary to popular belief, mouthwash will not cure your bad breath. Instead, it reduces the amount of saliva in the mouth, which is essential to curbing the growth of plaque and bacteria.

Instead of reaching for the mouthwash bottle, start by brushing and flossing after each meal or at least twice a day. If you smoke, quitting can freshen your breath. You should also try a tongue scraper, especially if your tongue appears yellow or white. If you suffer from dry mouth, drink more water, which will hydrate your body and reduce foul oral odors.

If you can’t seem to alleviate your bad breath, visit your dentist. In some cases, bad breath can signal a more serious issue, so seek the support you need as soon as possible. 

For fresh breath and a beautiful, healthy smile, consult the dentists from Cherry Hill Dentistry. Dr. Kroeger or Dr. Powell will closely examine your mouth and recommend ways to improve your oral hygiene to eliminate halitosis. To schedule an appointment, call the Lincoln practice today at (402) 488-2383. For more information about the practice, visit their website.