Bad breath is an issue that many people deal with at one point or another. It has a variety of causes, and occasional bad breath could be due to what you eat or other factors. However, frequent bad breath often has to do with your oral health. These oral health tips can help you avoid bad breath and other dental issues.
Gum Disease and Bad Breath
Gum disease is a common condition that affects 46% of adults.1 The buildup of bacteria in your mouth causes it. These bacteria are always present but can cause gum disease and tooth decay when they grow out of control.
The bacteria metabolize sugars left over from food and drinks in your mouth. They release compounds that damage your teeth and gums when they do so. Those compounds have a distinct foul odor, which is why the high level of them often present with gum disease can lead to bad breath.
Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease, and bad breath is a well-known symptom. A thorough dental cleaning followed by good at-home oral hygiene can help you deal with gingivitis. However, bad breath is only one symptom of gum disease. If your gum disease progresses, you can eventually experience tooth loss, other oral health complications, and even overall health complications.
Oral Health Tips for Brushing and Flossing
Brushing and flossing are vital in managing bacteria in your mouth. You should follow a well-established routine closely to prevent plaque buildup that allows bacteria to thrive.
It’s best to brush and floss twice daily and ensure that you’re brushing long enough each time (4 minutes).
Keep an Eye Out for Dry Mouth
A dry mouth is a common issue if you breathe through your mouth during sleep. You can wake up with your mouth feeling dry due to a lack of saliva. This provides perfect conditions for bacteria to thrive and create bad breath. Tobacco use, certain medications, and conditions like sleep apnea can contribute to dry mouth.
Always Stay Hydrated
Drinking water throughout the day is one of the most effective oral health tips to help combat bad breath. It can also help manage the bacteria that cause bad breath. By drinking water regularly, you wash away food particles stuck in your mouth. That’s also why drinking during and after meals is another excellent way to prevent bad breath, tooth decay, and gum disease.
Try Using Mouthwash
Mouthwash can be an effective tool for preventing bad breath. A mouthwash can reduce bacteria levels while being gentle on your mouth.
Chew Sugar-Free Gum
Gum with sugar should be avoided because it provides food for bacteria. However, sugar-free gum with xylitol can instead help protect your oral health. In addition to xylitol being an antibacterial agent, chewing the gum can generate more saliva, which helps combat bacteria and prevent issues like dry mouth.
Don’t Forget to Change Your Toothbrush
Do you remember when you got your current toothbrush? Many people don’t realize that changing their toothbrush every three months is vital to protecting oral health. Doing so helps prevent bad breath by preventing bacteria from building up on your toothbrush.
Treat Gum Disease as Soon as Possible
Addressing gum disease early can prevent the need for more invasive treatment later on. Bad breath may be an early sign of gum disease. If you experience bad breath, you can trust the skilled and caring team at Dental Implants & Periodontal Health of Rochester to evaluate your oral health and recommend the best treatment options for your unique needs.
Book your appointment today. Give us a call at 585-685-2005.
Sources:
[1] https://www.cdc.gov/oralhealth/fast-facts/gum-disease/index.html
