Bad breath is embarrassing to discuss with other people, but it's even worse when you have it! There are many factors such as the foods and drinks we consume, lifestyle habits, and even stomach acid that can negatively affect our breath. Luckily, there are a few measures you can take to rid yourself of halitosis (bad breath). Your dentist in Gaithersburg, MD shares some helpful tips for eliminating bad breath.
Always Brush After Eating if Possible
Brushing in the morning and at night are excellent oral hygiene habits; however, what about that garlic filled pasta you had at lunch? Brushing after lunch not only clears away the food particles that would sit in your mouth all afternoon, it also gets rid of the remnants of your meal that can affect your breath. Keep a toothbrush and toothpaste handy in your desk and make it a habit to brush after lunch.
Brush Your Tongue Along With Your Teeth
Don't forget to brush your tongue as well as your teeth. Your tongue has grooves that can hide food particles and bacteria that contribute to bad breath. It only takes an extra second to gently run your brush over your tongue before rinsing, and this can help to eliminate bacteria and bad breath.
Drink More Water
Water should be your beverage of choice during the day. Not only does it keep your mouth moist and your body hydrated, but it also helps to clear away the food particles and debris that could be causing your halitosis.
Contact Your Gaithersburg Dentist
If these helpful tips are not helping to eliminate your bad breath, there could be a deeper cause for concern. Chronic halitosis is a tell-tale symptom of periodontal (gum) disease. If you are proactive about contacting your dentist, gum disease in its early stages (gingivitis) is relatively straightforward to treat with improvements to your home care routine and a thorough cleaning with your hygienist.
Your team at Lakeforest Dental Associates is here to help if you are struggling with bad breath. Contact our office today for more information on managing your situation or to schedule a cleaning and examination with one of our dentists.
