What’s the best way to freshen your breath? We’re glad you asked! August 6th is recognized as National Fresh Breath Day, and your dentist in Tuscaloosa wants to take a closer look at what you can do to get that minty freshness all day long, as well as what may cause bad breath in the first place.
What Causes Bad Breath?
Stinky breath, also known as halitosis, occurs when bacteria in your mouth form plaque on your teeth and gums, creating an unpleasant odor that can be embarrassing during even the most normal of conversations. Some of the main causes of bad breath include:
- Food, which is usually temporary
- Dry mouth
- Poor oral hygiene
- Gum disease
- Certain medications
Did you know that your breath can reveal the health of your teeth and gums? So before we dive into some ways to freshen your breath, it’s important to schedule an appointment with your dentist in Tuscaloosa to check out your gums and teeth.
How to Freshen Breath
If you have bad breath, don’t fret. There are things you can do to reverse bad breath and keep it minty fresh.
Eat Smart
Avoiding sugary or processed foods can help reduce the risk of bad breath. We recommend incorporating fresh vegetables into your diet every day. These crunchy veggies can gently remove bad breath bacteria and moisten your mouth.
Drink Smart
Drinking plenty of water throughout the day will help wash away bacteria, neutralize acids, and help keep your mouth hydrated.
Snack Smart
People who have bad breath often turn to treats like gum or mints to mask the stink. This is fine, however, make sure that whatever you use doesn’t contain sugar — this can actually make bad breath worse. Instead, look for treats that contain Xylitol.
Brush Smart
One of the easiest ways to get rid of bad breath is to make sure you’re taking excellent care of your oral health. This means brushing your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes each time. Ideally, you should brush in the morning and at night. But that’s not all. Make sure you brush your tongue and floss in between your teeth daily to remove bacteria.
Schedule Appointments with Your Dentist in Tuscaloosa
Visiting your dentist every six months (or more often) can help keep your mouth healthy and help you avoid a buildup of germs that could be causing bad breath. Additionally, getting regular cleanings helps remove bacteria-filled plaque from around teeth and along gums and helps prevent gum disease, which is another common cause of bad breath. These bi-annual visits provide a chance for your dentist to spot and treat any issues early on, while they’re still easy to handle.
