Bad breath, also known as halitosis, can be embarrassing and inconvenient. In many cases, however, it can be avoided. While typically not a dental crisis, it’s always a good idea to discuss persistent bad breath with your dentist. In the meantime, there are a few practical lifestyle habits you can implement to keep the condition at bay.  

Practical Tips for Addressing Bad Breath

1. Practice Regular Brushing & Flossing

It is crucial to brush and floss your teeth daily to eradicate any odor-creating bacteria. In order to eliminate germs, be sure to brush your teeth at least twice a day, scrubbing all surfaces of the teeth. Spend at least two minutes brushing your teeth, and floss every night. You might also consider adding an antibacterial mouthwash to your oral hygiene routine to further prevent the development of bacteria.

2. Clean Your Tongue Daily

Like the teeth and gums, the tongue can also accumulate odor-causing bacteria. Food particles tend to stick to the tongue and multiply, which can cause foul smells. To eliminate them, clean your tongue daily with a plastic or steel scraper. The tool can be purchased from most drugstores and can remove buildup without causing discomfort.  

3. Avoid Potential Triggers

Halitosis can be avoided proactively when trigger foods and habits are avoided. For instance, foods such as coffee, garlic, onions, and fish can leave pungent odors behind. In addition, smoking and chewing tobacco products can leave the mouth dry, which creates the perfect breeding grounds for bacteria. Quitting this habit will improve your breath–and your overall oral health.

4. Stay Hydrated

It’s important to stay hydrated to maintain fresh breath. Drinking at least eight glasses of water each day cleans the teeth by flushing away food particles. This also prevents dry mouth, which can be caused by some medications. If you believe you have dry mouth, your dentist may be able to offer a solution to alleviate the symptom, such as a prescription that stimulates saliva production.

5. Visit Your Dentist

Regular teeth cleanings and exams help to keep breath fresh, as hygienists can scrape away sticky tartar. In some instances, however, bad breath can be an underlying symptom of an infection. Tooth abscesses, in particular, are serious infections which are notorious for producing a foul odor. If you’ve ruled out the above issues and still experience bad breath, don’t wait until your next exam to see your dentist.

If you’re experiencing persistent bad breath, don’t hesitate to contact the team at the Dental Clinic of Onalaska in Wisconsin. These experienced professionals will devise the best line of treatment to help you overcome this inconvenient symptom for good. Led by trusted dentist Dr. Mike Olsen, the practice offers comprehensive general and cosmetic dental services and ensures all patients feel welcome and comfortable during their appointments. View their complete list of services on their website or call (608) 783-3341 to schedule an appointment. You can also reach their second location in Trempealeau, WI, by calling (608) 534-6195.