How do I get rid of bad breath?

Everyone can feel a bit self-conscious about their breath after a garlic heavy meal, but some people experience bad breath persistently.  If you feel like your breath is not pleasant after you brush your teeth or no matter what actions you seem to take, then it is time to talk to the dentist about your halitosis.

Bad breath can be quantified and specified by the dentist based on the breath from your mouth, your nose and the scraping from the back of your tongue.  If there are specific chemicals present, the dentist may be able to diagnose more serious medical issues.

The best way to avoid bad breath is to maintain good oral hygiene habits preventing cavities and gum disease.  When the bacteria from plaque causes tooth decay or infections in your gums, one of the results is bad breath. Brushing and flossing twice a day and maintaining twice yearly professional cleanings will help prevent future problems and treat any potential issues as they arise.  Taking time to brush after meals with a toothpaste that includes fluoride will help reduce the bacteria growth and improve bad breath.  And be sure to take time to brush your tongue as well as your teeth; the tongue can also harbor bacteria that causes bad breath.  For people who are smokers or have dry mouth, a tongue scraper may be a helpful tool in assisting the bacterial removal.  Flossing will remove small food particles and bacterial growth between your teeth.

The dentist may work with you to control your bad breath if it caused by oral health complications.  There are mouth rinses and antibacterial toothpastes to kill the bacteria that causes the plaque buildup and bad breath.  These can be helpful between professional dental cleanings.

The dentist may even suggest a periodontist to treat your gum disease to help your bad breath.  As gum disease progresses, the gums pull away from the teeth leaving pockets for bacteria to grow and develop.  In these situations, only professional treatment can remove the bacteria completely and help improve your overall dental health, not just your breath.

If you have dentures or dental appliances be sure to take it out to clean it thoroughly at least once a day, carefully following instructions given to you by the dentist.

Another great reason to drink more water is to help prevent dry mouth.  Using tobacco, drinking coffee, alcohol and soft drinks can all contribute to dry mouth.  The reduction in the flow of saliva can cause bad breath so making these adjustments in your habits can improve your overall health and your breath.

Other changes in your diet, like decreased onion and garlic can improve your breath.  Eating less sugary foods can deprive the bacteria in your mouth, also improving your breath.

Be sure to talk to the dentist about your bad breath concerns at your next appointment to see I there are any additional measures you can take at home or between appointments.  If not, the dentist may be able to recommend professional options or even medical treatments for more serious conditions like diabetes that can be indicated by bad breath.

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