Our Best Tips Against Bad Breath
Even though bad breath does not pose a serious risk to your health, it can become very troublesome when recurring. Even worse, it’s not always easy to get rid of it. To that end, it is important to identify the underlying cause and to know what to do to fix it.
At Groupe dentaire API, we noticed that this issue affects a significant number of our patients, who are often embarrassed to talk about it. As a result, we decided to write this article in which we offer you our best tips against bad breath.
Why do I have bad breath?
That’s the question some people are asking us. Before we answer it, it should be explained that bad breath goes hand in hand with the growth of bacteria in the mouth. These bacteria lead to the development of bad smells by decomposing and breaking down food residues.
It should be noted that the amount of saliva produced by the mouth has a direct impact on bacterial growth because saliva has natural antibacterial properties. Thus, less saliva also means more bacteria… and possibly bad breath.
Bad breath can also be linked to eating habits and lifestyle. In light of that fact, here are the most common causes of chronic bad breath:
- Poor oral hygiene;
- Untreated dental issues such as cavities or gum disease;
- Taking certain medications, which can reduce the production of saliva;
- Dry mouth;
- Consuming certain foods or drinks, such as onions, garlic, coffee, alcohol.
Tips from our team against bad breath
When we know what causes a problem, it’s easier to find solutions. Here are the tips from our dentists and their team for people facing chronic bad breath.
Maintain perfect oral hygiene
Brush your teeth after each meal and be sure to floss at least once a day, before brushing. This way you can remove by yourself as much food residue and bacteria responsible for bad breath as possible. It is also recommended to get a tongue cleaner to remove the bacteria on it.
Beware of mouthwash
Some people tend to use an impressive amount of mouthwash to fix their bad breath problem. If a lack of saliva causes the issue, be careful because mouthwash containing alcohol can cause dry mouth, which won’t fix the problem, on the contrary! Be sure to use a type of mouthwash without alcohol.
Visit your dentist regularly
In addition to getting a thorough cleaning of your teeth and mouth, routine visits are also an opportunity for your care team to ensure nothing affects your teeth or gums. If necessary, you will then be directed to the appropriate treatment!
The Groupe dentaire API team offers a full range of general dental services. Prevention, diagnosis and treatment, our dentists and their team can detect and treat the different issues that can affect your teeth.
Chewing sugarless gum
In addition to giving your breath a nice smell, chewing sugarless gum stimulates saliva production, which is excellent against the nasty bacteria that cause bad breath. It is, however, recommended to do it moderately to avoid developing a temporomandibular joint (jaw joints) disorder.
Watch your diet
Be aware of foods and drinks that can cause bad breath and consume them sparingly: onions, garlic, cheese, red meat, coffee, etc.
Avoid smoking and limit your alcohol consumption
Tobacco and alcohol are two factors causing dry mouth and bacterial growth. It is thus recommended to avoid smoking and to drink alcohol with moderation.
Keep hydrated
Of course, to avoid dry mouth, you need to keep hydrated. Be sure to drink 1.5 to 2 litres a day, or 8 large glasses of water.
If your bad breath problem persists despite the advice presented in this article, we invite you to come meet us at Groupe dentaire API. Our team will find the solution to your problem and give you individual advice.
Approved by Dr. Jacques Léonard
Dr. Jacques Léonard, general dentist in Laval, fan of orthodontics
Dr. Léonard obtained his dental degree from Université Laval. He practices dentistry and offers orthodontic services at our Laval clinic. As a general dentist, he completes several training courses to offer his patients care that meets their needs.
Dr. Jacques Léonard
