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Bad Breath and Oral Hygiene

Beyond brushing and flossing, there are more steps that can help you keep your mouth, teeth, gums and breath healthy for a lifetime.  Remember, most of the

causes of bad breath have to do with dental and oral hygiene.  Likewise, a good dental and oral hygiene will help treat, remedy and even cure bad breath.  Make sure to follow the steps below:

1.  Understand your personal oral health needs

Watch for changes in your general health and be aware any medications that may dry out your mouth.  Always ask you dentist about how your mouth may be affected.

2.  Commit to a daily routine

Develop a routine that is  easy for you to follow and takes into account any health conditions or medicines that you might be taking.  You may need to use special daily care.

3.  Watch what you eat

When food gets lodged in your teeth for any period of time, it provides the breeding ground for bacteria.  And the more time it has to produce sugars and acids, the more you open yourself to tooth decay.  This is especially true for sugary and starchy foods. 

4.  Brush and floss often

You should brush and floss after EVERY MEAL (AND SNACK).  The key is to remove plaque and bacteria that forms in your teeth and is a common cause for bad breath.

5.  Examine your mouth weekly

You can recognize any changes such as swollen gums, discolored teeth, chipped teeth, or any sores on your gums, tongue or anywhere inside your mouth.  

6.  Stop Smoking and Chewing Tobacco

Bad breath and stained teeth come directly from smoking.  But that should be the least of your worries.  Click on the link above.  We have dedicated a whole section on bad breath and smoking.

7.  Visit your dentist at least twice a year

Make sure you visit your dentist regularly to get a complete cleaning and analysis of your teeth and mouth. 

 

The articles listed below will go into more detail about good oral and dental hygiene which can be key in fighting bad breath