When you want to snuggle up with your sweetheart or whisper something funny to a friend, bad breath is a problem. While this issue may not kill you, it can put a damper on your social and personal interactions. Typically, bad breath, or halitosis, occurs because food becomes trapped in your mouth. These particles provide a breeding ground for bacteria, which multiply and produce unpleasant odors.

While you can experience bouts of halitosis from certain foods or as a result of a head cold, persistent bad breath usually happens because of underlying issues. Poor oral hygiene, certain medications, dry mouth, tobacco use, and gum disease can all contribute to consistent problems with bad breath. Talk with your dentist if you have concerns about chronic halitosis.

Tips for Fresh Breath

• After each meal, brush teeth and rinse your mouth to remove food particles.

• Apply a few drops of peppermint or tea tree oil to your tongue or toothbrush for fresher breath.

• Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and rinse away excess food.

• Limit alcohol consumption and avoid mouthwashes with alcohol, which dries out your mouth.

• Schedule regular dental appointments so that you stay current with professional cleanings; these visits will also let your dentist look for any problems that may cause halitosis.

• Stop smoking so that you don’t have to deal with tar and nicotine build up.

• Take the time to brush your tongue because the little hairs on its surface can easily trap bacteria.

• To increase saliva production, chew sugarless gum.

• When you snack, choose foods like celery, carrots, and apples, which help stop plaque development.

Dr. Yolanda Cruz dentistry – Tips for Halitosis– Toronto Canada Dentist