Halitosis, or bad breath, is a common issue that’s preventable in most cases. If regular teeth cleaning doesn’t fix the issue, your dentist can help solve the problem. Follow these steps to get rid of bad breath and unpleasant tastes so you can experience greater confidence and comfort.

How to Treat Bad Breath

1. Clean Teeth Regularly

Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to scrub your teeth twice a day. Use circular motions rather than sawing back and forth; clean all areas of your mouth, including every exposed tooth surface, the roof of the mouth, and the tongue. Once a day, use a 20-inch length of dental floss or a water pick to clean where your toothbrush can’t reach. Wherever two teeth meet, clean the space between them by pulling the floss tight around a tooth in a C-shape; run the filament up and down to scrape residue out of the crevices and from under the gumline.

2. Change Your Diet

Staying hydrated helps you form extra saliva that naturally washes bacteria and food debris out of the mouth. This helps prevent bacterial activity and decay that causes many cases of halitosis. Try cutting back on strong-smelling foods like garlic, onions, alcohol, and coffee. Eating crunchy fruits and vegetables can also help clean your teeth as you chew.

3. Treat Underlying Causes

Some cases of halitosis are caused by dental- or health-related issues. For example, gum disease and tooth decay can lead to sheltered pockets of bacteria in the mouth that produce unpleasant odors and strong-smelling pus. If you still have bad breath after regular teeth cleaning and diet changes, tell your dentist about it at your next oral exam. They’ll look for any underlying causes and suggest treatments. Depending on the issue, this may include deep cleanings, fillings, or antibiotics.

For professional teeth cleaning and other dental treatments, visit Harvest Dental PSC in Somerset, KY. This practice has been serving Pulaski, Madison, Rockcastle, McCreary, Wayne, Russell, Casey, Lincoln, Laurel, and Whitley counties for over 25 years. They offer family-oriented care and create lifelong relationships with each patient. They also have a dentist on call for after-hours emergencies. Call (606) 677-0238 to make an appointment, or visit them online to learn more.