Emergency Dental Services in Albuquerque, NM

Bad breath can be extremely embarrassing and affect your self-confidence. There are many causes of bad breath, including medical conditions. Bad breath can also be caused by your diet. Brushing and flossing your teeth at least once a day can help keep your breath fresh. Cleaning your tongue can also help. Here are a few tips.

Brush your teeth twice daily

Bacteria in the mouth are the leading cause of bad breath. These bacteria feed on the leftover food particles and mucus in your mouth, releasing foul-smelling gases as a byproduct. The easiest way to get rid of this odor is to brush away the plaque and food debris from your mouth. The best way to get rid of bad breath is by brushing your teeth at least twice every day. It is best to use fluoride toothpaste that contains an antibacterial agent like triclosan. 

Floss at least once a day

Plaque is a sticky film that builds up on teeth every day. While brushing can get rid of some of the plaque, some still remain between teeth and along the gum line. This is why flossing is so important! It can reach these spots and help keep teeth and gums healthy and clean. It is important to floss regularly to avoid gum disease and bad breath. It is also important to note that the type of floss you use is important. There are a variety of options available, including waxed and unwaxed, flavored, unflavored and more. Ask your dentist which type is best for you!

Brush your tongue

Your tongue harbors millions of odor-causing bacteria that release sulfur compounds that create bad breath when they come into contact with oxygen. Brushing your tongue will help remove these bacteria and freshen your breath. Get into the habit of brushing your tongue each time you brush your teeth to avoid chronic bad breath. Using a tongue scraper to scrape off the layer of plaque on the surface of your tongue is also highly recommended.

Clean dentures or dental appliances

When wearing your dentures or braces, it’s easy to accumulate odor-causing bacteria. Be sure to clean them daily and soak them in a denture-cleaning solution overnight to help keep your breath fresh and clean. You may also need to follow up with your dentist if your bad breath doesn’t improve with cleanings.

Avoid dry mouth

If your mouth is dry, it can lead to bad breath and tooth decay. Saliva helps remove food debris from the mouth and neutralizes acids from bacteria. Without saliva, the mouth becomes acidic and promotes bacterial growth. Drink plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated. You can also chew sugar-free gum to stimulate your salivary glands. Dry mouth can also be caused by certain medications like antihistamines and decongestants. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about changing your medication if dry mouth becomes a persistent problem.

Adjust your diet

There are a lot of foods that can leave a bad odor in your mouth. Foods like garlic, onion, coffee, and vinegar can cause your breath to smell very bad. Drinking plenty of water can help you to wash away the odor-causing residue from your mouth. You should also avoid eating highly acidic foods and drinks since they can erode your tooth enamel and create conditions for bad breath to develop. Drinking water can also help to prevent dry mouth since it can help to increase the flow of saliva in your mouth.

Regularly get a new toothbrush

It is also a good idea to change the toothbrushes every three to four months. An old brush cannot clean your mouth as efficiently as a new brush can. Bacteria can easily build up on your toothbrush over time and can cause bad breath. By using a new toothbrush, you remove these bacteria and keep your breath smelling fresh and clean! 

Schedule regular dental checkups

Dental cleanings and exams are crucial to preventing bad breath and achieving better overall oral health! Regular care also allows us to monitor your oral health and treat any potential problems before they become serious. Scheduling routine visits gives our team a chance to intercept decay and gum disease early on before it causes significant damage to your smile. 

To learn more, schedule an appointment to meet with the best dentist, Albuquerque, NM 87109, today!