Fresh breath isn’t just nice to have; it’s also a reflection of strong oral care. When your mouth is free of harmful bacteria, avoiding halitosis, or foul-smelling breath, is a natural byproduct. In addition to brushing regularly, there are a few additional practices needed to keep bad breath at bay. Try out these simple tips to boost your breath.

A Complete Guide for Fresh Breath

Optimize Your Oral Care Regimen

Brushing alone isn’t enough to combat bad breath. Food particles which get stuck between teeth and along the gum line must also be eradicated through daily flossing. These particles attract harmful, odor-causing bacteria, resulting in halitosis. By flossing each night, you’ll help to ensure most if not all surfaces of the tooth are bacteria-free.

Beyond brushing and flossing, you may also consider upgrading your oral care routine with a mouthwash, which acts as an extra line of defense for rinsing away stubborn food particles. Brushing your tongue, as well as gentle tongue scraping, can help rid the mouth of unwanted bacteria. A final but important tip for keeping your breath fresh is visiting the dentist’s office regularly, as only dental offices have the tools and trained staff needed to remove sticky, stubborn tartar.

Watch Your Eating & Drinking Habits

Staying hydrated is important for maintaining a healthy mouth, which supports fresh breath. Your mouth needs moisture to stimulate saliva and get rid of bacteria, so drink your eight cups of water each day. Be mindful of your coffee and alcohol intake, as both leave behind residues that attract plaque.

In terms of diet, certain foods are notorious for causing pungent breath. Onions and garlic, for instance, can cause off-putting odors to linger, and so can foods high in sugars. Eating healthy greens like parsley may help to combat the effects of bad breath, also consider avoiding problem foods before heading out for an important event.

Some people have chronic halitosis, or bad breadth, in spite of their good dental care. Specialized mouth rinse is available at the dentists office to help in these situations. If you still have bad breath following these recommendations, you may have dental or health issues that need further attention. So let your dentist know about your concerns and problem as soon as you can.

If you’re due for a cleaning and exam to support healthy teeth and fresh breath, turn to the team at Hulse Dental. Led by experienced dentist Dr. Hulse, this La Crosse County, WI, oral care center makes patients feel at ease while receiving top-quality dental services. Their facility uses state-of-the-art technology to offer family, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry. Tour their office online now, and call (608) 783-1306 to schedule an appointment.