Whether due to poor oral hygiene or pungent food, bad breath is not something you want to bring to a conversation. Also known as halitosis, this problem can be embarrassing and confidence-crushing. Fortunately, it’s not something you have to be stuck with. If you’re battling bad breath, here are a few different ways you can tackle the problem — and how a dentist can help.

How to Get Rid of Bad Breath

1. Amplify Your Dental Hygiene

Bad breath is often related to excess bacteria in the mouth — a problem that can also cause cavities and gum disease. Brushing twice daily, flossing once a day, and rinsing with mouthwash are all great ways to eliminate this bacteria and boost your oral health. However, if the problem is persistent, you’ll need a dentist to get to the root of the issue, whether it’s gingivitis, an infected tooth, or something else. Through deep cleanings, tooth fillings, or root canal therapy, your provider will be able to treat the underlying problem so you can once again enjoy fresh breath.

2. Drink More Water

Bacteria — and the smells they produce — thrive in a dry mouth. As such, it’s important to stay hydrated so your body can produce enough saliva. If drinking more water doesn’t help, talk to a dentist about other ways you can tackle dry mouth, such as rinsing with an artificial saliva product.

3. Mix Up Your Snacks

Certain foods and drinks — including onions, garlic, and coffee — can leave behind odors that give you bad breath. While you don’t have to avoid these items entirely, enjoying them with better-smelling snacks can help your breath stay fresh. For example, apples, celery, and carrots are all healthy foods that can neutralize bad odors in the mouth.

4. Don’t Smoke

If you smoke, the smell of tobacco, nicotine, and numerous chemicals can linger on your hands, clothes, and breath long after you put out the cigarette. If you want to get away from this smoky odor, think about giving up tobacco products for good.

5. Chew on Sugar-Free Gum

If you need a quick way to freshen your breath, indulge in a piece of sugar-free gum. Minty gums will help give your mouth a better smell that can be refreshing and inviting. The act of chewing will also help promote saliva production, which in turn, can rinse away odor-causing bacteria and food debris.

If you have concerns about your oral hygiene or your breath, turn to Eric J. Hartzell, DMD in High Point, NC. The trusted dentist can quickly identify the source of your halitosis and offer solutions to eliminate the problem — including deep cleanings and tooth fillings. In addition to relieving the burden of bad breath, his team can also enhance your confidence with a number of advanced cosmetic dentistry services, including teeth whitening and dental crowns. Visit the practice online for more details on these and other services or call (336) 886-8776 to schedule an appointment today.