How Can You Prevent Bad Breath?

It can be tempting to ignore your bad breath until it gets so bad that it becomes a concern. However, while the smell can be embarrassing, it can also cause embarrassment in your social life. It’s a good idea to schedule an appointment with your dentist in Oakland, CA, for bad breath when it becomes noticeable.

The most common causes of bad breath are caused by bacteria. Bacteria (like those that live in the mouth) feed off of food particles that are leftover in your mouth. These bacteria consume carbs and sugars and produce acids. These acids then break down your enamel. The enamel is the hard, white outer layer of your teeth that helps protect them from damage and decay. However, when the enamel is not properly protected, it can lead to tooth decay. This can then cause bad breath.

You can prevent bad breath by following these tips:

Brushing and Flossing Regularly

Brushing and flossing your teeth regularly can help you prevent bad breath. That’s because brushing and flossing help remove food and bacteria that can build up in your mouth and cause infection. Brushing and flossing also prevent gingivitis and tooth decay, which can also cause bad breath.

Quit Smoking

Smoking can wreak havoc on your oral health. Not only can it cause bad breath, but it may also lead to tooth decay and gum disease. When you smoke, you tend to neglect your oral hygiene routine, and this only makes things worse. As bacteria build up in your mouth, you will start to develop bad breath. Smoking also stains your teeth, and this makes them look yellow and dull. If you smoke, you should quit as soon as possible. In the meantime, you can rinse your mouth out with water after smoking, and this can keep bacteria at bay.

Avoid Certain Foods and Drinks

There are a few foods and beverages that can increase your chance of suffering from a bout of bad breath. For example, eating onions and garlic can cause unpleasant odors. Additionally, coffee, alcohol, and cigarettes are also common causes of bad breath.

Regular Cleanings

There are a variety of potential reasons that you might have bad breath, including dry mouth, untreated gum disease, or an underlying medical condition. If your bad breath isn’t related to any medical condition, then it likely stems from your mouth.

A dental cleaning by your dentist in Oakland, CA, will prevent the accumulation of bacteria, plaque, and tartar on your teeth. This buildup can cause bad breath, as well as other dental problems. While you can brush and floss, a professional cleaning will give you the deep clean you need to banish bad breath.

Dentures and Mouth Guards

If you have dentures, make sure that you clean them every day. When you don’t clean them, they can become stained and start to smell. If you wear a mouth guard to protect your mouth, make sure that you clean it every day. Your mouth guard won’t be able to protect your teeth from damage if you don’t clean it regularly.

To learn more about best practices for oral health, call Bay Area Dental at (510) 350-8187 or visit our dental office at 3300 Webster Street, #907, Oakland, CA 94609. Book your appointment with our dentist in Oakland, CA, to achieve the smile you have always wished for.