Halitosis: General Dentistry Tips to Prevent Bad Breath

You can use general dentistry checkups to help with a wide variety of oral health conditions. Most commonly, your dentist will diagnose and treat issues such as cavities and gum disease. Other conditions may affect the way your smile looks. Some problems can be embarrassing and have an impact on the way you interact with others. Halitosis is an example. Bad breath can be concerning, but there are ways you can stay away from it.

When to see the dentist at a general dentistry office

People should not have to wait until they have a significant oral health problem to visit the dentist. Regular checkups and cleanings should occur at least every six months. These should start with patients at a young age and continue throughout all stages of life. Patients should also call the dentist when there is severe tooth pain, bleeding gums, jaw pain, or damaged teeth.

Avoiding halitosis: good brushing

People can do things every day to prevent bad breath. Establishing good oral hygiene habits is an effective way to maintain fresh breath. People should brush at least twice a day with fluoride-based toothpaste. Brushing thorough is especially vital after meals and before bed. Brushing the tongue can also help. Parents of young children should help to brush effectively. Make sure to brush both sides of every tooth.

Replace the toothbrush

Regular brushing is essential, but having the wrong toothbrush can have negative effects. General dentistry advice says to replace toothbrushes often. Older toothbrushes will start to grow bacteria, which the person will spread onto their teeth with every use. Patients should discard their toothbrush and get a new one every three to four months. A soft-bristled brush is most effective.

Flossing

Daily flossing will also help to promote pleasant breath. This activity will remove food and other debris from in between teeth. As a result, bacteria are less prone to form. Otherwise, this would not only lead to plaque and tartar but could make the breath smell foul.

Using a mouthwash

General dentistry offices may recommend the use of an antiseptic mouthwash. This can be a daily or twice-a-day practice, often before bedtime. Mouthwash products help to eliminate bacteria from the mouth. These liquids can also freshen breath.

Watch the diet

Dentists at general dentistry offices will advise patients to limit eating certain foods to prevent halitosis. Foods such as garlic and onions are particularly problematic when it comes to bad breath. Foods with a high sugar content can have the same results. Start by cutting back on these items and gradually eat less. Doing this should make the person’s breath fresher and more pleasant to other people.