Bad breath, or halitosis, is quite common and can often be managed at home.
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How to Treat Bad Breath Yourself
To prevent bad breath, maintaining good oral hygiene is essential:
Do
– Brush your teeth and gums gently for at least two minutes, twice a day.
– Use fluoride toothpaste.
– Clean your tongue daily with a tongue scraper or cleaner.
– Floss or use interdental brushes at least once a day.
– Schedule regular dental check-ups.
– Keep dentures clean and remove them at night.
– Chew sugar-free mints or gum after consuming strong-smelling foods and drinks.
– Consider using antibacterial mouthwash or toothpaste.
Don’t
– Don’t smoke
– Don’t rinse your mouth with water immediately after brushing.
– Don’t have lots of sugary foods and drinks.
– Don’t brush too hard to the point of causing gum or tongue bleeding.
Causes of Bad Breath
Bad breath can stem from several factors, including:
– Consumption of strong-smelling or spicy foods.
– Dental issues like gum disease, cavities, or infections.
– Crash dieting.
– Certain medical conditions such as dry mouth, tonsillitis, and acid reflux.
– Smoking.
When to See a Dentist
Consult a dentist if you experience:
– Persistent bad breath despite self-treatment for a few weeks.
– Painful, swollen, or bleeding gums.
– Toothaches or loose adult teeth.
– Issues with your dentures.