A study featured on the Crest website showed that 37 percent of people considered bad breath a “downer” when meeting someone new. If your breath is less-than-fresh, don’t let it introduce you before you enter a room. By following these tips from Pacific Beach dentist Ricardo Hernandez, you can eradicate bad breath for good and make a better first impression.
Brush and Floss More Often
Cavities, tooth decay and gum disease cause bad breath, and the best defense against these culprits is to clean the teeth regularly. Brush twice daily and floss at least once daily to remove tiny food particles that can build up in the crevices between the teeth. After you’ve finished brushing your teeth and gum line, clean the surface of your tongue to dislodge bacteria. A tongue scraper can be helpful. (Go gently to prevent gagging!)
Stay Away from Garlic and Onions
Garlic and onions can enhance the flavor of a meal — and simultaneously sour your breath. Other spices, especially things found in cuisines containing curry, can also affect how your breath smells. If you’re worried about the way your breath smells, cut out these flavor enhancers and add in more veggies, which promote a more alkaline environment and cancel out bad-breath-causing acids.
Cut Down on Sugar
Bacteria in the mouth usually ferment sugar, causing a distinct odor. Reduce your intake of sugary treats and snacks, and make sure any gum or mints you buy are sugar free.
Trigger Saliva Production
Chewing sugar-free gum or sucking on sugar-free candies can help your breath in another way — by stimulating the production of saliva. Dry mouth is known to cause bad breath, so anything you can do to promote saliva production may help.
Hydrate Yourself (with Water)
Drinking water keeps your mouth lubricated and bacteria in check. It’s also a better alternative to sugary sodas, fruit juices and sports drinks.
Check Your Dental Appliances
Do you wear dentures or removable retainers? Have they possibly trapped food particles, which are causing the foul smell? Make sure you’re cleaning dental appliances daily with the correct products. You might notice fresher breath almost immediately.
Schedule an Appointment with Dr. Hernandez
If you have tried all of these tips but still struggle with stinky breath, you could have a serious dental condition. Call 858-272-6047 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Hernandez so he can examine your mouth and look for any potential problems.