By Ascend Dental Studio | June 16, 2021
We have all been there: that uncomfortable feeling that you may have bad breath. It can be embarrassing and is not an uncommon condition for many individuals. So, what causes bad breath or halitosis? It is one thing if you know the culprit, like eating onions or garlic, but what can help when you have a persistent oral odor?
Read on to learn some helpful tips on fighting bad breath and maintaining your dental health from cosmetic dentist in Henderson, NV. If you are concerned you have a problem with offensive bad breath, contact Ascend Dental Studio to schedule an appointment with Dr. Timothy Luong today.
What causes bad breath?
Everyone can deal with offensive bad breath at some point and, in some cases, even with good oral hygiene. While there are many potential causes for persistent oral odor, the underlying cause generally originates in the mouth. Other times, factors outside of the mouth, like stress or a medical condition, may cause halitosis. Some additional key points about chronic bad breath are:
- A common cause of halitosis is poor oral hygiene
- Food particles or debris that get stuck between teeth and gums can lead to offensive breath odor
- It is estimated that one in every four adults are affected by chronic bad breath
How can I improve my oral health and fight bad breath?
At Ascend Dental Studio, we understand that offensive bad breath can be an embarrassing issue for Henderson, NV men and women, even causing psychological distress. Halitosis is the third most common reason why adults seek dental care after gum disease and cavities. The following seven tips are possible ways to help treat or prevent oral odor. However, if you have persistent bad breath, we recommend scheduling an appointment with Dr. Timothy Luong to check for any underlying causes.
1. Floss regularly
Flossing is essential for good dental health. It removes or dislodges food debris from in between the teeth that a toothbrush can’t reach. If food particles are not removed, harmful bacteria will thrive on them, causing offensive bad breath.
2. Brush twice a day
Brushing twice a day for at least 2 – 3 minutes is necessary for good oral health. If you have bad breath, add a round of brushing with baking soda to reduce acidity in the mouth, thus making it difficult for harmful bacteria to grow and cause bad breath.
3. Scrape or brush your tongue
Use your toothbrush or a tongue scraper to remove any residue that may build up on your tongue daily.
4. Use an oral rinse
Mouthwashes can help control bad breath, even reduce tooth decay or cavities. It can also help dry mouth, gingivitis, and receding gums. In addition to brushing and flossing, mouthwash can help fight oral odor and improve your dental health.
5. Drink plenty of water
Be sure to drink plenty of water (48 – 64 oz. a day). Dehydration is one of the primary causes of oral odor. If you have chronic dry mouth or take medications that cause this condition, talk to Dr. Timothy Luong about any recommendations for an over-the-counter saliva substitute.
6. Avoid tobacco use or smoking
For obvious reasons, smoking can contribute to bad breath. Tobacco products can also cause dry mouth and leave an unpleasant smell that lingers even after brushing and flossing.
7. Healthy snacks
A natural way to freshen your breath is to snack on certain vegetables or fruits. Munching on a stick of celery, a carrot, or an apple will step up your saliva production between meals to help wash away any food debris or particles that may be causing bad breath. A healthy snack can also help alleviate offensive bad breath caused by hunger.
Will a dental cleaning help with bad breath?
As part of your preventive care, routine dental cleanings remove tartar, plaque, and harmful bacteria, which oftentimes results in achieving fresher breath. Improving your oral health with regular visits to the dentist also supports a healthy body and overall general wellness.
In addition to dental cleanings, Dr. Timothy Luong and the team at Ascend Dental Studio go beyond supporting better dental health and preserving your smile. If you’re experiencing chronic bad breath, even after brushing and flossing, contact our dental practice in Henderson, NV, and schedule an appointment or online consultation with Dr. Timothy Luong today.
