Offensive Breath? Go on the Defensive!
- Posted on: Jul 30 2018
Did you know that 1 in 3 people have chronic bad breath? This statistic may not help you feel better if you are one of them, but it can at least let you know that your case is not unusual. Many people struggle to regain balance after their breath starts to lean toward the offensive side. You don’t have to struggle alone. The team in our Portland office is here to help you manage bad breath with appropriate tips and treatments.
3 Tips for Better Breath
Take Care of Your Teeth
Brushing and flossing are the two best practices for healthy teeth and gums. Brushing removes the particles of food that naturally stick to enamel after meals. Even the beverages that you drink leave debris in your mouth. That debris invites bacteria, which results in plaque. Because plaque contains sulfuric compounds, it is a significant contributor to bad breath. Action step: brush your teeth every morning and night and remember to floss once a day.
Take Care of Your Tongue
Bad breath may also originate on your tongue. Sometimes, we can see a white film on the tongue, usually toward the back. This indicates plaque buildup on soft tissue that contains dead cells, bacteria, and tiny particles left behind by food. It is possible to remove this film quickly and easily after brushing. Action step: purchase a tongue scraper at a drug store and gently run it along your tongue, from back to front, after brushing.
Hydrate
Many people are dehydrated and suffering subtle consequences of this condition. We need at least eight glasses of water a day to support the various functions the body must perform. And it isn’t enough to chug as much water as possible in one sitting. Hydration comes from sipping. Drinking water throughout the day also keeps the moisture level of the mouth higher. Water consumption supports saliva production, too. This moisture dilutes sugar residue and the sulfuric compounds that cause bad breath. Action step: get a water bottle and keep it with you so you can easily drink every few minutes.
Bad breath can be tackled with help from your Portland dentist. Contact our office at 503.646.1463 to schedule a comprehensive exam and cleaning with our friendly team.
Posted in: General & Family Dentistry