Having bad breath is not an immediate cause for alarm. Everyone experiences times when their breath isn’t super fresh when they wake up in the morning or after having a cup of coffee. However, having consistent bad breath with no obvious cause can be cause for concern. In addition to morning breath or bad breath caused by certain foods, poor oral hygiene or underlying health concerns could also be contributing to your bad breath.

Avoiding certain foods and drinks

The most obvious, and easiest to fix, problem that causes bad breath are the foods and drinks you consume. Food that leave a less than pleasant, yet lasting effect on your breath are:

• Garlic
• Onions
• Coffee
• Spices like cumin or curry
• All protein diet can lead to an ammonia smelling breath
• Canned fish like tuna or salmon
• Dairy products like cheese and milk
• Alcohol

To get rid of bad breath caused by foods or drinks, you can drink water after you consume them to wash out your teeth and tongue, or you can avoid eating the foods altogether. If you can’t say goodbye to some of your favorite, pungent foods, you can always brush your teeth after you eat. Be sure to scrub your tongue!

Stop smoking

Smoking or using other tobacco products can leave a lingering bad smell on your breath. Smoking is also bad for your overall health and quitting will do more than just keep your breath from getting stinky.

Practice good oral hygiene

Brush your teeth at least twice a day, preferably after meals, using fluoride toothpaste. Make sure to brush your tongue as well, as odor-causing bacteria can accumulate on the tongue’s surface.  Use dental floss to clean between your teeth and remove food particles and plaque. Rinse with mouthwash. Use an antimicrobial or antibacterial mouthwash to kill bacteria and freshen your breath.

Stay hydrated and eat healthy foods

Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your mouth moist. A dry mouth can contribute to bad breath. Include more fibrous foods like fruits and vegetables, which can help clean your mouth and stimulate saliva production.

Address medical conditions

If bad breath persists despite good oral hygiene, it may be due to an underlying medical condition such as sinus infections, acid reflux, diabetes, or liver or kidney problems. Consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment.

Clean dental appliances

If you wear dentures, retainers, or other dental appliances, make sure to clean them regularly according to your dentist’s recommendations.

Scrape or Brush Your Tongue

Use a tongue scraper or a toothbrush to gently clean your tongue’s surface. This can help remove bacteria and food particles that contribute to bad breath.

Make routine visits to the dentist

If you are looking for a dentist who can help you with keeping your teeth and gums healthy but who can also help you address bad breath, give Dental Remedies in St. Augustine, FL a call today.