When you’re up close and personal, the last thing you want is to worry about your breath. However, many people struggle with chronic bad breath, known as halitosis. Sometimes, this is caused by a larger dental or medical concern. For instance, patients with gum disease or tonsillitis will likely have bad breath. When these health issues are treated, breath will improve. However, for the majority of people, making a few small changes in daily habits is enough to deliver fresh breath. Before your next job interview or first date, take a few moments to review our 7 tips for fresh breath.
1 – Save Your Parsley Sprig – And Eat It!
Last time you went out to a restaurant, you might have seen a green sprig of parsley decorating your plate. Most people simply throw these out. Next time you see a parsley sprig on your plate, save it to eat after your meal! Parsley is an herb that will cleanse your pallet, neutralize food smells like onions and garlic, and remove odor causing plaque from teeth.
2 – Use the Right Stuff
Minty toothpastes and mouthwashes will freshen breath for a time, but the most important thing is to thoroughly clean all the surfaces of teeth. Use a soft bristled toothbrush, fluoridated toothpaste, and dental floss or a flosser you are comfortable working with to keep teeth free from plaque buildup. Your dentist or hygienist can discuss possible products with you during your twice a year preventive dentistry checkups.
3 – Brush or Use Mouth Rinse Between Meals
Want to amp up your daily hygiene routine? Brush or use a mouth rinse between meals. This will limit the amount of time plaque is stuck to teeth, and avoid the development of hardened plaque, referred to as tartar or calculus, that needs to be removed by a dental hygienist.
4 – Brush Your Tongue
Actually, don’t stop with your tongue. Foul odor-producing oral plaque can adhere to the palette, gums, and cheeks as well. Brush your tongue and other soft tissues to maintain fresh breath all day long.
5 – Drink Plenty of Water
Drinking water increases saliva production and rinses the mouth out. It’s important to drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep plaque buildup at a minimum.
6 – Kick Your Smoking Habit
Most people know that smoking is bad for their health and one of the leading causes of oral cancer, but it’s also bad for your breath. The smell of the tobacco itself can be unpleasant, and smoking also increases risk for dry mouth. Without adequate saliva levels to neutralize plaque, patients are more likely to experience bad breath.
7 – Visit the Dentist Twice a Year
For patients in Bullard, we welcome you to visit the dental office of Tad Morgan, DDS. Our caring dentist and team will help you keep your smile healthy and your breath minty fresh. Contact our office to find out more tips for fresh breath or schedule an appointment with us today.