August 6th is National Fresh Breath Day
Bad breath, also known as halitosis, may be caused by a number of factors. We all know that pungent foods such as onions or garlic can cause less-than-fresh breath, but dry mouth, periodontal disease and tobacco use can also contribute.
Bad breath can also be caused by bacteria that feed off of food particles and other debris that sticks to teeth to dental braces. Thorough brushing and flossing at least twice a day or after eating should take care of the offending odors. Paying specific attention to your tongue while brushing can also help eliminate odors since bacteria can cling to the tongue’s surface.
If you are concerned about having bad breath after eating, but do not have time to brush afterwards, chewing gum or sucking sugar-free candy can help stimulate saliva flow which helps wash away bacteria and debris.
How to keep your breath so ‘fresh & so clean, clean’…
1) Schedule professional dental cleanings at least 2 x per year. Bacteria lurks and builds up below your gum line in areas that your tooth brush & floss cannot reach.
2) Drinking plenty of water and snacking on crunchy fruits and vegetables such as apples, celery and carrots can also prevent halitosis-causing bacteria from forming.
3) If you smoke, bad breath is one of many health concerns that may affect your decision to quit. Since smoking can cause vitamin C deficiency, which could be contributing to your bad breath, taking a vitamin C supplement may help.
4) Products like breath sprays, mints and mouth wash are also great ways to mask bad breath on the run but will not treat its root cause and may wear off quickly.
🦠If you notice that you are developing chronic bad breath, it is a good idea to schedule a consultation with your dentist.
🦠If your halitosis is caused by gingivitis or periodontal disease, your dentist can offer gum disease treatment.
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