If you have ever watched a friend or coworker shrink away because of the scent of your breath, you might be wondering what caused the problem in the first place and how to prevent issues moving forward. Here are three easy ways to prevent bad breath, and how your dentist's office can help. 

Brush & Floss Carefully

One of the most common causes of bad breath stems from oral bacteria building in your mouth, so focus on brushing and flossing more carefully. Brush your teeth twice a day for a full two minutes and visit your dentist’s office if you aren’t sure which toothpaste to use. When you floss, focus on running the strand between each spot to remove bacteria and food particles, and don’t forget the area behind your back molar. 

Avoid Garlic & Onions 

Garlic and onions contain sulfuric compounds that make your breath smell terrible. To make matters worse, these are absorbed into your bloodstream and exhaled a few days later through your lung tissue, making it seem like your bad breath is dragging on and on. To prevent bad breath, avoid adding onions to soups and stews, and try seasoning foods with something other than garlic. For instance, lemon is a convenient alternative. 

Chew Sugar-Free Gum

There is a reason you might spot a bowl of sugar-free gum samples near the door of your local dentist’s office. In addition to freshening your breath, sugar-free gum also increases saliva production, which helps to neutralize bacterial acids and rinse away stinky food particles. To keep your breath fresh, chew a stick of sugar-free gum after each meal. 

Since bad breath can have more causes than just your overall dental health and daily food choices, it is important to visit your dentist’s office if you notice ongoing problems. At Anchorage Dental Center, Dr. James Driskell focuses on getting to the root cause of dental issues, helping patients to restore their oral health in a fast, effective manner. To learn more about how he can help, visit his website or call (907) 278-2521.