When bad breath strikes, you hope that it’s a temporary problem. However, for some of us, it seems like malodorous breath lingers, and is practically impossible to get a handle on. That is why our Glendale dentists are here to help! We have found that many patients are trying to deal with the symptoms of bad breath, without really understanding why it develops in the first place.
Generally speaking, chronic bad breath is a result of bacterial build up in the mouth. So, as you would imagine, in order to defeat bad breath, one really needs to get a handle on oral bacteria.
- Increase water consumption
When you drink water, you enable your body to produce plenty of saliva, which works to neutralize bacteria. Additionally, drinking water works to dislodge dental debris as well as bacteria. Patients who suffer from chronic dry mouth are also prone to developing halitosis, so keep that water bottle handy.
- Floss between meals
Food particles that become stuck between your teeth may have their own odors, and they serve as sustenance for oral bacteria. Give your mouth a thorough rinse or a quick floss after you’re done eating. However, make sure to wait at least 20 to 30 minutes to brush after eating or drinking something acidic, as your enamel is temporarily softened during this timeframe.
- Limit sugars
Oral bacteria absolutely love sugars and refined carbohydrates—they use them for energy to grow! You can make it harder for bacteria to thrive by forgoing sugars and carbohydrates in favor of healthy veggies. Keep this in mind when you’re evaluating breath-freshening treatments; you want to choose formulations that are sugar-free, so as not to compound the underlying problem.
Bad breath doesn’t have to plague you forever; our Glendale dentists are here to help you break the cycle. We’re here to help you build a treatment plan that has you smiling and speaking confidently.