Bad breath is an experience many people worry about. In addition to acting as a sign of gum disease and dental infections, it's socially awkward when you're spending time around others. If you want to avoid halitosis, here are some top dental tips that'll make your life easier:
Hydrate Yourself
Every part of your body thrives when you hydrate adequately. In order to produce saliva, your salivary glands need a ready supply of water. Unfortunately, not getting enough of the right fluids means they'll struggle to produce saliva, which can then result in bad breath.
One of saliva's key roles is to wash away bad bacteria. If bad breath is becoming an issue, consider whether you're drinking enough water. Should you find that upping your water intake isn't resolving the problem, it's wise to book an appointment at your local dental practice to look for underlying causes.
Monitor Your Food
Eating a rich and varied diet helps to boost your energy levels and keep your weight under control. But did you also know it can impact the way your breath smells? Even if you brush your teeth regularly, diets that feature massive amounts of protein, fat, sugar and acid can also contribute to bad breath. This is because they disrupt your oral enzymes and interact with bacteria in your mouth.
Try creating a food diary and see if you can make any adjustments. For example, if you find that you're eating too much sugar or fat, look for healthy alternatives. It may take a little while for your dietary changes to have a positive impact. If there is no change, speak to your dentist about other causes.
Assess Your Medications
Did you know that certain medications can cause bad breath? Antihistamines, diuretics, antidepressants and some oral contraceptives are key culprits in making your breath smell bad. However, this doesn't mean you need to stop taking them. Instead, you need to assess why the medications may cause halitosis.
For example, diuretics and antihistamines can both cause a dry mouth. As such, you'll need to discuss increasing your water intake with the person who prescribes them. If you're looking for general advice, ask your dentist.
When addressing self-care doesn't work, it's worth considering whether your bad breath stems from an underlying dental cause. Making routine visits to your dentist gives them a chance to identify gum disease, loose teeth and other issues. With the right plan in place, you can enjoy a better-smelling and better-tasting mouth.
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