Nobody wants to have bad breath, but rather than simply cover it up, it’s best to get to the cause of bad breath. First, however, you should talk with your Wilmington dentist if you have persistent bad breath that lingers because it might indicate a more severe problem.
You can also try the following approaches:
Stay On Top of Your Oral Health
If you are not already brushing and flossing regularly, you should be. If you develop tooth decay or gum disease, those can both be underlying causes of unpleasant breath. You should also visit your dentist twice each year for an examination and professional cleaning.
Be sure to keep your tongue clean as well. Brush your tongue gently or get a tongue scraper for more effective cleaning.
Stay Sugar-Free
Mints and gum mask bad breath, but both can also stimulate saliva production to help get rid of bad breath. However, if you are using products that are not sugar-free, you should switch right away. The sugar in other types just feed the bacteria that is causing bad breath.
Stay Hydrated
If you have chronic dry mouth, either from medications or chronic dehydration, this can contribute to bad odors. Staying hydrated stimulates your salivary glands, keeping your mouth at a good moisture level.
Watch What You Eat
We all know that foods like onions and garlic contribute to bad breath, but other than avoiding those, there are things you should eat that can help with bad breath. Black and green tea, for example, have polyphenols, which can help prevent the bad-breath-causing bacteria from growing in your mouth. The spice cardamom also contains antibacterial properties and can act as a natural breath freshener.
See Your Doctor
If you feel like you’ve tried everything for your dragon breath, but it persists even after a trip to your Wilmington dentist, it might be time to see the doctor. Bad breath could come from underlying medical issues, such as GI disorders, liver or kidney problems, diabetes, and sinus infection, to name a few.
Dental Cleanings in Pike Creek
Are you due for a dental checkup and cleaning? Give us a call today to make an appointment!
