Oral malodor, or bad breath as it is also known, is more than a simple annoyance. Bad breath suggests that you might be suffering from poor oral health. For one, it could be a warning sign that you might be suffering from a buildup of plaque on your teeth, a condition called periodontal disease. Further, bacteria may be growing out of control, potentially even releasing toxins in your mouth.
Luckily, there are steps you can take to not only rid your mouth of bad breath all day long but also to address the underlying causes. This will ensure that your mouth isn’t the source of bad odors and that you have good oral hygiene.
While the below tips should help you get your bad breath under control, consider reaching out to Oral malodor may be-be a sign that something serious is wrong, or that you’re suffering from poor oral hygiene.
Don’t (Just) Cover Up Your Bad Breath
First thing’s first. Don’t try to simply cover up your bad breath with mouthwash or mints. Even if you cover up the odor, you’re not addressing the underlying causes. Bad breath might be what you’re worried about at the moment, but when it comes to oral health, you actually have bigger concerns.
Brush Two to Three Times a Day
One-third of millennials brush their teeth just once a day. Many older (and younger) folks also brush their teeth only once per day, or less. One of the biggest things you can do to ensure the good oral health, and that your breath doesn’t smell, is brushing your teeth two to three times a day.
You should brush for about two minutes each time. Make sure you get back behind your molars, your front teeth, and anywhere else you might not be dedicated enough time to. Be careful not to over brush, however, as you could damage your tooth enamel.
Floss Regularly
Bacteria feed off of tidbits of food in your mouth. These bacteria are often the source of your bad breath. So by getting rid of debris, you can reduce bacterial growth. This, in turn, will reduce or even eliminate bad odors.
Unfortunately, debris often becomes stuck between your teeth, which is well out of the reach of your toothbrush. That’s why you need to floss or use a water pick regularly. Doing so will remove debris that has become lodged between your teeth.
Don’t Forget Your Tongue
Many people don’t realize that your tongue needs to be brushed and scraped as well. Food, bacteria, and other contaminants can become stuck to your tongue. Debris is especially prone to building up in your tonsils and the folds of your tongue.
So when you finish brushing your teeth, give your tongue a gentle brush as well.
Try Some Green or Black Tea
A University of Chicago study found that green and black tea can potentially inhibit bacterial growth. So if you’re at work or elsewhere and suffering from bad breath, consider making yourself a cup of tea.
The study also found that regularly drinking tea can ward off cavities and prevent gum disease. Both can result in bad breath. Green tea is also rich in antioxidants, and both types of tea can provide a caffeine boost as well.
Drink Plenty of Water
Make sure you’re getting the six to eight glasses of recommended water per day. Not only will you stay hydrated, but you’ll also rinse away food, debris, and bacteria.
Rinse Your Mouth Out After You Eat
Further, you should rinse your mouth out with either water or mouthwash after eating. Doing so will dislodge debris and clear away bacteria. Occasional rinses will help discourage bad breath from ever occurring.
Make Sure You Don’t Go on an Empty Stomach
Some people skip eating because they’re suffering from bad breath. No more food, no more bacteria growth, right? Actually, empty stomachs are prone to acid buildups, which in turn can result in foul smells. So make sure you don’t go on an empty stomach.
Eat Some Fresh Fruits or Vegetables
Looking for a snack to fill your empty stomach? Skip the garlic coated stuff and munch on an apple, or perhaps a stick of celery. Doing so will get the saliva flowing, which will help clear out debris.
Sugarless gum can also help get saliva flowing. Minty gum may help mask any already present odors. Just remember not to rely solely on gum to mask bad breath. It’s important to address the underlying issues.
Use Mouthwash (But Don’t Depend on it)
Finally, while mouthwash isn’t enough to ensure good oral hygiene, it can help. First, mouthwash will help cover up bad bread that you’re suffering from right now. Second, antiseptic mouthwashes may help control bacterial growth.
Rinsing out your mouth with mouthwash once or twice per day may reduce bacterial growth. Remember, however, that mouthwash is not a substitute for brushing your teeth.
About The Author:
Ken is a huge fan of living the best life possible. His health is extremely important to him and he currently enjoys doing work for Restore TMJ & Sleep Therapy. Other than that he enjoys blogging, hiking, and plenty of steaks.
