Helpful Tips for Preventing Bad Breath

Bad breath is something that no one wants and everyone works at avoiding. Having bad breath can send the wrong impression, it can make you feel unclean and it can hamper a relationship or even prevent one from starting. There are many causes of bad breath including poor oral hygiene habits, gum disease, dry mouth, food, disease and certain medications. Here are the top ways to prevent having bad breath on a daily basis.

Remember to brush your teeth at least twice a day. In addition to brushing your teeth daily, try flossing once a day and using a tongue scraper to remove build up and food debris. Bad breath is primarily caused by bacteria in your mouth that feed on bits of food and debris. A combination of brushing, flossing and scraping your tongue are the best ways to keep bacteria under control.

Drinking plenty of water will clean out your mouth and prevent dryness. Dry mouth is a primary source of bad breath. Staying hydrated is good for your overall health, especially your oral health. Limiting the amount of alcohol you drink on a daily basis will also help maintain fresher breath.

Try eating foods that actually give you good breath. Foods that are high in Vitamin C like melons and citrus fruit will kill germs in your mouth. Fiber-packed foods like celery and apples are like little scrubbers for your teeth and they help remove food that gets stuck on or in between your teeth.

Chewing Xylitol gum is good for a number of reasons. Bacteria thrive on sugar, which they break down into acids causing bad breath and tooth decay. Xylitol is a sugar alternative that bacteria can’t break down, and chewing this type of gum increases saliva production which helps clean the mouth. Since there is not bacteria break down with Xylitol gum you are left with the fresh scent of the flavor of gum you are chewing. Be sure to look for Xylitol as a main ingredient in sugar free gum.