How to Get Rid of Bad Breath

Ever wonder why your breath seems to smell worse right after you wake up in the mornings?  Then you’re in luck because today we’re going to spill all the tea – the best ways to prevent and get rid of bad breath. 

Bad breath, also called halitosis, can be caused by a variety of things from the foods you eat to your oral hygiene regimen. In most cases, bad breath can be managed with simple life changes.

1. Follow a Good Oral Hygiene Regimen

The bacteria living in your mouth thrives off of whatever was left behind from your last meal. This bacteria then releases foul odors, causing bad breath. That’s why it’s crucial to properly brush and floss your teeth two times a day, eliminating food debris and lowering the population of oral bacteria in the mouth. We also highly recommend brushing your tongue with a tongue scraper or a toothbrush as most oral bacteria lives on the tongue.

Plaque buildup is another cause of bad breath, which is why it’s important to get teeth cleanings at the dentist every six months. Trips to the dentist ensure that your oral health is treated properly, thus decreasing your chances of bad breath.

2. Choose Breath-Friendly Foods & Beverages.

Eat foods that promote fresh breath. For example, swap out sugar-rich foods when trying to combat bad breath because oral bacteria loves all things sweet! Instead, try to incorporate more vegetables and fiber-rich fruits like carrots, apples, and celery. These foods can help clean teeth and remove food debris by scraping off plaque and hindering bacteria buildup. Also try to avoid foods/drinks like garlic, onions, canned tuna, coffee, and alcohol.

3. Stay Hydrated

Another cause of bad breath is a dry mouth! Keep your mouth hydrated at all times to promote good breath and good oral health. For those of you wondering about morning breath, the main cause is waking up with a dry mouth. Our saliva glands play a major role in fighting oral bacteria, however, this bodily function slows down as we sleep, which is why our breath often creates a funky smell. Try keeping a water bottle next to your bed to stay hydrated. Make sure to continue to drink water throughout the day, and try chewing sugar-free gum to keep saliva circulating in your mouth.

If you’ve tried these three tips and still suffer from chronic bad breath, it may be time to go and see your reputable dentist for a professional opinion. At Vosh Dental, we are always here for you. Please come see us so we can address the issue and find the best solution for you. Our team wants to help in every way possible.