How To Stop Halitosis

Nobody wants to have halitosis! Bad breath is bad news. It can adversely affect your job, your relationships, and your self-esteem. Bad breath usually originates in the gums or tongue. Debris or bacterial wastes hanging around your mouth manufacture a sulfur compound that causes an unpleasant odor. Poor oral hygiene can be a contributing factor to bad breath but there are other causes as well, such as gum disease or sinus problems.

Have you ever wondered why your breath smells less than pleasant when you first wake up in the morning? It’s because your salivary glands aren’t as active at night, which allows bacteria to have a party of sorts in your mouth while you sleep. Saliva is your body’s natural weapon against bad breath. It washes away food particles and bacteria that cause bad breath. This keeps potential odors in check.

The best way to rid yourself of “morning breath” is to brush your teeth first thing each day. Brushing effectively cleanses your mouth of the bacteria that have gathered on your teeth, tongue, and gums while your salivary glands were sleeping. What’s more, regular brushing is a key to good dental hygiene and good dental hygiene is one of the best ways to avoid chronic bad breath.

If you suffer from chronic halitosis, or if you suspect that your bad breath may be the result of an underlying dental or medical condition, you should contact your dentist to schedule an evaluation. Your dentist can effectively locate the source of your bad breath, as well as identify any potential medical conditions that might be to blame and refer you to a specialist if necessary.

If your dental visit includes a cleaning, so much the better! Removing plaque and bacteria from your teeth will instantly freshen your breath. You can also take a few simple steps at home to improve your breath between dental visits. Brushing twice a day and flossing after meals helps remove bacteria and food particles from your gums and between your teeth. When you brush, be sure to include your tongue, the inside of your cheeks, and the roof of your mouth.

Visit us at Community Dental Group if you suffer from chronic halitosis or if you would like to schedule a cleaning to remove unwanted plaque and bacteria from your teeth. We’ve been serving the Newbury Park area for nearly twenty years. Call us at (805) 499-1253 to schedule a cleaning and consultation.