Maintaining fresh breath is part of feeling healthy and confident. And while breath mints and gum can improve your breath for the short-term, long-lasting results start with preventative oral health care. Here are a few tips dentists want you to know.

Dentists’ 4 Fresh Breath Tips 

1. Brush & Floss Regularly

For best results, brush after breakfast and dinner and floss at least once a day, preferably before bed. Doing so removes bacteria that causes odor and plaque. Be careful, however, not to go overboard. Brushing too often or aggressively can wear down tooth enamel, making you more prone to cavities and other issues. You can also add an antibacterial mouthwash to your routine for added cleanliness.

2. Clean Your Tongue

Food particles don’t just accumulate on the teeth and gums, but on the tongue as well. To remove bacteria, clean your tongue daily with a plastic or stainless steel scraper. Drag it along the tongue surface at least once a day to eliminate buildup.

3. Stop Smoking

Smoking tobacco has numerous adverse health effects. Not only can it increase your risk of heart disease and cancer, but it can also lead to bad breath. Smoking produces a foul odor that can linger in the mouth, particularly if you’re a frequent smoker. 

4. Drink Plenty of Water

Drink at least eight eight-ounce glasses of water a day to keep your body hydrated and flush food particles and bacteria away from the teeth and gums. Drinking water also increases saliva production, which prevents dry mouth. Take note that some medications cause dry mouth, so if you are on long-term prescription medications, talk to your dentist or doctor about ways to combat this side effect. 

In addition to these tips, visit your dentist for routine cleanings twice a year to keep your mouth healthy and your smile bright. During these cleanings, your dental team will remove bacteria and plaque from hard-to-reach areas, reducing your risk of cavities, gingivitis, and other issues. If you’re a High Point, NC, resident, turn to Tkatch Dentistry. Their caring team offers personalized, compassionate care to patients of all ages, from children to the elderly. Call (336) 889-9916 to schedule an appointment or visit their website to learn more about their services.