At Coolsmiles, we understand that bad breath can be a big turn off for most people, especially those that are image-conscious. It is also very annoying for people who deal with the problem.
- How can you tell if you have bad breath?
- What is the cause of bad breath
- Is there any way to prevent it?
Bad breath, or halitosis, is difficult to notice yourself and embarrassing if you experience other people’s reactions. If you are lucky, a friend or family member will let you know if you have bad breath before you are offensive to others.
Bad smell can come from bacteria in the mouth or poor health. It has a significant personal and social impact if you are offending others. In fact, people who have a fear of halitosis, called halitophobia, often contact their dentist to find ways to combat halitosis.
Many causes of bad breath
- Eating foods with strong odors such as garlic or onions are the biggest offenders
- Poor oral hygiene if you don’t brush and floss regularly. Food particles that remain in between the teeth, around the gums, and on the tongue can cause bacterial growth
- Health problems like gum disease, yeast infections, pneumonia, bronchitis, chronic sinus infections, diabetes, postnasal drip, chronic acid reflux, and liver or kidney problems.
Tips to prevent bad breath
- Brush after every meal to remove plaque and food debris from the mouth.
- Replace your toothbrush every two to three months, or sooner, if you see the bristles wear out. This often happens with patients wearing braces.
- Eat a healthy breakfast. Eating a variety of fruits can cleanse your tongue as you chew and help prevent the accumulation of odor-causing bacteria before you start your day
- Stop smoking or chewing tobacco-based products. This includes cigars of course. The only remedy for this is to “kick the habit.”
- Dehydration – drinking lots of water washes away loose bacteria on your teeth, gums, and tongue… just like a shower or bath.
Many products today help to effectively treat bad mouth. Mouthwash, gum, or breath mints are helpful but only mask a problem caused by bacteria, dental disease, or a medical problem.
Here is the latest scoop on new tongue brush put out by Oral B if you want to go the extra mile.
Watch this video on YouTube.
Whatever the cause, take positive steps to combat bad breath! Keeping friends may depend on it.