7 Ways to Combat Bad Breath | Dentist Near Me

dentist near me

Halitosis, commonly known as bad breath, is commonly associated with certain foods. Garlic, onion, and cabbage can all cause a foul odor and taste for several hours after you’ve eaten them. This type of temporary halitosis is easily solved by avoiding the foods that cause it. However, in some cases bad breath is a chronic problem that simply changing your diet won’t solve.

Long-term bad breath is caused by the presence of bacteria in your mouth. These bacteria are most often found on the back of the tongue and thrive when your mouth is dry. There are a variety of ways you can help reduce or eliminate chronic bad breath. Some of these include:

Practice good oral hygiene.

Our 68701 dentist wants you to brush your teeth after you eat as often as possible and at least twice daily. Clean between your teeth using dental floss or another interdental (between teeth) cleaner at least once each day. Food particles between teeth will break down slowly and cause unpleasant odors and tastes.

Brush your tongue.

Even if you brush and floss your teeth as recommended, the bacteria causing your bad breath may remain on your tongue. Use a tongue scraper or toothbrush to gently scrape away any particles of food or bacteria every time you brush. For best results, place the scraper or brush as far back as you can manage without gagging. This will generally become easier over time.

Keep well-hydrated.

Dry mouths allow bacteria to thrive. By drinking plenty of water, you can help prevent the bacteria growth and reduce or stop bad breath.

Avoid bad breath triggers.

Onions, garlic, cabbage, coffee, and tobacco products are all known to cause bad breath.

Chew sugarless gum.

By chewing sugarless gum, you increase saliva production and keep your mouth moist. This helps slow or prevent bacteria growth, minimizing chances of bad breath.

Improve your diet.

Crunchy fruits and vegetables, yogurt, and foods rich in vitamins C and D all work to prevent the growth of bacteria, keep your mouth cleaner, and increase saliva flow.

See your dentist.

Follow your regular schedule of dental hygiene appointments and exams, as well as dental cleanings. If you have tried the tips above without improvement, make an appointment for an exam to see if there may be an underlying condition that requires treatment. Treat any oral illnesses, such as decayed teeth, periodontal (gum) disease, or infection.

For more information about the potential causes and treatments for halitosis, contact our Norfolk, NE dental office.

Family 1st Dental of Norfolk – Taylor Avenue
Phone: (402) 371-6566
2104 Taylor Avenue
Norfolk, NE 68701

Return to Blog Articles

Visit Our Norfolk Dental Office

Norfolk Location

2104 Taylor Avenue,
Norfolk, NE 68701

(402) 371-6566

Screen Shot 2019-07-23 at 11.04.44 AM

Our Dental News

Filling in the Gaps: Your Options for Missing Teeth | 68701 Dentist

If you’re self-conscious about your smile due to missing teeth, modern dentistry offers a variety of tooth replacement options that look and feel like natural teeth. Here are three of the most common solutions to replace missing teeth: Dentures Dentures […]

Learn More

An Important Reminder About Your Next Dental Appointment | Norfolk Dentist

Making your dental health a priority is essential for maintaining overall health and wellbeing. Despite our busy schedules, it’s important to schedule regular dental appointments and keep them. Our team understands that life can get hectic, which is why we […]

Learn More
68701 dentist

12 Reasons to See Your Dentist | Norfolk NE Best Dentist

Don’t wait until you’re in pain to see your dentist! Most people make time to clean out the house, car, garage, or closets at least twice a year. Why not include your oral health on your “to do” list?  Schedule […]

Learn More