Do you suffer from bad breath? Don’t worry – you’re certainly not alone. More than 80 million people have chronic halitosis (bad breath), so it’s much more common than you think! However, that doesn’t make it any less embarrassing. If you’re scrounging the internet for solutions to fight the foul-smelling odor, stop right there because we’ve got you covered. Read along to learn what causes bad breath and five ways you can alleviate it.

What Causes Bad Breath?

Usually, bad breath originates from the teeth and gums. There are many possible causes behind it, including:

• Food – Consuming certain foods like onions, garlic, and spices can contribute to bad breath. After digesting them, they enter your bloodstream and are carried to your lungs, causing a foul odor in your mouth.
• Tobacco Products – Smoking and using other forms of tobacco can cause an unpleasant mouth odor. These unhealthy practices also increase the risk of gum disease, which is another source of bad breath.
• Poor Oral Hygiene – Brushing and flossing your teeth every day is crucial to eliminate leftover food particles that may be causing bad breath.
• Dry Mouth – If your mouth is not producing enough saliva to wash away bacteria and food particles, it can lead to foul mouth odors. Dry mouth can also be a side effect of some medications.

How to Stop Bad Breath

Use the following tips to get rid of bad breath:

Practice Good Oral Hygiene

Keeping your mouth clean is the best way to prevent bad breath! Make sure you brush your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes each time to eliminate plaque and food particles. Don’t forget to floss daily as well! Although it’s often overlooked, it’s a crucial step to remove unwanted substances from the crevices between your teeth that a toothbrush can’t reach.

Clean Your Tongue

Bacteria, food particles, and other debris can get trapped in between the grooves and crevices on your tongue. To clean your tongue, brush it gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush or use a tongue scraper. It helps eliminate any substances that contribute to bad breath.

Avoid Tobacco Products

As mentioned earlier, smoking and using tobacco products can cause a foul odor in your mouth. That’s because tobacco dries out your mouth, leaving an unpleasant scent that lingers even after brushing and flossing. So, if you ever needed a reason to quit, do it for the sake of your breath!

Drink Plenty of Water

To avoid dry mouth, make sure you drink plenty of water every day! It’s perfect for washing away food particles and bacteria that cause bad breath. If you have chronic dry mouth, your dentist might recommend using an over-the-counter saliva substitute.

Regularly Visit Your Dentist

Last but not least, regularly seeing your dentist is crucial to maintain good oral health. If you have bad breath, your dentist can evaluate your mouth to detect or treat any underlying problems causing it.

Ultimately, the best way to stop bad breath is with proper dental care and a healthy lifestyle. By following the tips outlined above, you can ensure your breath stays fresh for as long as possible!

About the Practice

At Fort Dental, we offer comprehensive services that are guaranteed to meet all your oral health needs. Our team always puts patients first, ensuring that they have a comfortable, relaxing, and satisfying visit every time. If you’re suffering from bad breath, we can develop a treatment plan to stop it right in its tracks. We’ll have your mouth smelling fresh and clean in no time! Visit our website or call (817) 292-5957 to schedule an appointment.