A healthy mouth doesn't just look good; it should also smell fresh. Chronic bad breath can be a sign of poor teeth cleaning or indicate an infection that needs to be treated by a dentist. To help narrow down the cause of any unpleasant odors, try the following.

5 Simple Ways to Fix Bad Breath 

1. Daily Hygiene

Make sure your dental hygiene routine is consistent and effective. Twice a day, use a soft-bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste to scrub all your enamel surfaces with circular motions. Remember to floss once per day as well. 

2. Find Healthy Things to Chew

Chewing a little sugar-free gum can help remove plaque and food residue. It also keeps up the flow of saliva that cleans your teeth. Try chewing some fresh-smelling herbs, like mint or lemongrass, or fibrous fruits and veggies, like carrots, apples, and celery.

3. Use Mouthwash

If your bad breath is coming from an excessive amount of mouth bacteria, a daily mouth rinse can limit their growth. Ask your dentist to recommend a brand that will be healthy for your teeth. Mouthwash can provide other benefits as well, like daily doses of fluoride.

4. Drink Water

Some bad breath is caused by dehydration that increases bacterial growth in your mouth and decreases the saliva that washes away debris. Drinking water regularly not only rinses your mouth, but it also provides your body with moisture used to combat mouth dryness day and night.

5. Visit the Dentist

If none of these options help you control your breath odor, schedule an appointment with your dentist. They'll examine your mouth for signs of infection or health conditions to find the root of the issue. They’ll be able to identify the problem, which could be caused by anything from missing a particular area while brushing to addressing cavity and root canal treatment. 

If you need a dentist's help for bad breath or other oral care issues, choose Steven A. Kumasaka, DDS in Kaneohe, HI. Serving the island of Oahu, Dr. Kumasaka has years of experience in preventive, cosmetic, and emergency dental care. The dental office focuses on flexibility, accessibility, and creating a family-friendly environment. To make an appointment, call (808) 247-2240 or send a message online.