Let’s face it – some of us could use some help with our breath.
Bad breath, also known as halitosis, can be caused by poor oral health habits and may be made worse by smoking and eating certain foods. Bad breath may also be a sign of other health problems.
Brushing and flossing every day remove bacteria that can cause tooth decay. But these same bacteria, lingering on the tongue, between the teeth and around the gums, also cause bad breath. For denture wearers, food particles and bacteria on dentures that are not properly cleaned can result in bad breath.
Here are 9 ideas on how to fight bad breath naturally:
- Visit us regularly for cleanings and exams! Our dental cleanings remove plaque and tartar that you just can’t get at with a toothbrush.
- Drink lots of water and swish it around in your mouth for a cool refresher.
- Brush your teeth after every meal and floss daily to remove food particles.
- Take out your dentures at night and clean them well to eliminate bacterial buildup.
- Replace your toothbrush or your electric brush head every 3 months.
- Use a tongue scraper or spoon to gently remove odor-causing fungi, bacteria and dead cells on your tongue.
- Citric acid stimulates your salivary glands which can help fight bad breath, so chew on a well-washed piece of orange or lemon rind.
- The chlorophyll found in green plants can neutralize odors, so chew a fresh sprig of parsley, mint or basil.
- Commercial mouthwashes usually contain alcohol. If you’d like an alcohol-free version, mix one cup of water with a teaspoon of baking soda and a drop or two of antimicrobial peppermint essential oil. Rinse thoroughly but don’t swallow.
If Bad Breath Persists, Come In for a Check-Up
Halitosis that is persistent and doesn’t respond to good oral health care may be a warning sign of gum disease. Without treatment, periodontal disease can damage the gums and jawbone and cause loss of teeth.
Bad breath may also be a signal of non-dental health problems including dry mouth, diabetes, bronchitis, pneumonia, chronic acid reflux and kidney or liver issues.
Please give us a call so we can closely examine your teeth and gums and help get to the root of your halitosis.
Let Us Know If You Have Questions on Any Aspect of Oral Health Care
Dr. Lorraine Burio of Candlewood Dental Care has been treating and educating patients for over twenty-five years. Our office serves the New Fairfield, New Milford, Danbury, and Sherman areas of CT and Pawling, Patterson and Putnam Lake of New York. You can call us at 203-746-1200 or make an appointment here.