How Your Family Dentist Can Help With Bad Breath

Your family dentist is here to help you with all matters concerning oral health: from cavities, to gingivitis, to bad breath. Officially called “halitosis,” this can be caused by the raw onions you ate for lunch, or something more complex (but treatable). If people in your life have complained about your breath, it may be worth addressing at your next appointment.

Read on to learn more about how your family dentist can address and treat bad breath.

Bad Breath Treatment: Professional Fixes

First and foremost, bad breath is addressed by having a regular cleaning regimen. This not only addresses bad breath, but will prevent a host of other health issues as well. Regular brushing and flossing helps prevent cavities, keeps gums healthy, and yes, fixes most cases of bad breath. Tooth brushing is far more effective than breath mints or chewing gum!

However, your family dentist may treat bad breath in the following ways:

• Recommending certain mouth rinses or toothpastes. Bad breath is typically caused by bacteria or plaque buildup on your teeth. Your dentist may recommend a special type of toothpaste or mouthwash with antibacterial agents that are intended to kill these bacteria.
• Treating any dental disease. Patients experiencing gum disease may need to see a gum specialist, or periodontist, to treat this issue. Gum disease affects breath because odor-causing bacteria fills the pocket left as infected gums pull away from the teeth. Sometimes it requires a professional to remove that bacteria if daily brushing isn’t enough.

Bad Breath Home Remedies

If your bad breath isn’t caused by a more serious issue like gum disease, the following home remedies will address the issue.

Brushing Your Teeth After You Eat

Experts recommend brushing your teeth at least twice a day. However, if bad breath is a significant problem, you may want to have a toothbrush in your desk at work, or some other accessible place, to brush more frequently. Use a toothpaste with antibacterial properties.

Remember To Floss

That plaque that gets stuck in your teeth after eating isn’t just unsightly: it’s directly causing bad breath! Keep floss handy to remove plaque after every meal to keep your breath fresh.

Remember To Brush Your Tongue

It may sound silly, but remember to take a couple swipes at your tongue with your toothbrush after you spit into the sink. The tongue is a popular hangout spot for odor-causing bacteria. You can use your toothbrush, or invest in a mouth scraper.

Clean Your Retainers, Dentures, And Other Mouth Gear

If you use retainers, dentures, or other gear, it’s important to keep it clean. Soak these appliances in the appropriate cleaner before putting it into your mouth. Ask your dentist about the best cleaning products to use. You can also brush your appliances with a toothbrush.

Stay Hydrated

Drinking water has numerous health benefits: treating bad breath being among them. Keep a water bottle on your desk or in some accessible place throughout the day so you remember to stay hydrated. Remember, only water has true hydrating benefits: not tea, juice, or sodas. If dry mouth is an issue, your doctor may have an additional solution.

Eat A Healthy Diet

As with drinking water, a healthy diet is good for both the body and breath. In addition to obvious culprits, such as garlic or onions, sugary snacks also worsen breath. Keep these at a minimum for optimum health, oral and otherwise.

Remember To Change Out Your Brush

Your toothbrush will eventually become frayed and ineffective after a few months. Experts recommend changing it every three to four months or so, or six months at the latest. Choose a brush with soft bristles, or use an electric one to keep gums healthy.

Schedule Regular Appointments

Regular cleanings with your family dentist can address any cavities, gum disease, and other issues that can cause bad breath. It’s recommended to see your family dentist every six months for optimum oral health.

What To Expect From Your Dental Appointment

If you’re seeing your dentist with concerns about bad breath, it’s recommended to go earlier in the day. This is because any food you eat throughout the day will affect the assessment of your breath. Try not to mask the smell with any lotions, perfumes, or scented lip balms. Be sure to mention any medications you’re taking, as some of these can have bad breath as a side effect.

To get an accurate assessment of your oral health, your dentist may ask the following questions:

• When you first noticed bad breath as a recurring problem;
• How often bad breath occurs;
• How often you brush and floss;
• How often you clean appliances like dentures or retainers;
• What your diet is like;
• What other health conditions you may have;
• Whether you breathe more through your mouth or your nose;
• If you snore;
• If you have any known allergies or sinus problems.

In the absence of an obvious cause, like gum disease or plaque buildup, your answers will help your dentist recommend a treatment for fresher breath.

A Family Dentist In Fort Lauderdale

Bad breath can be a symptom of a larger problem, or just a pesky annoyance. Regardless, it’s important to see your family dentist regularly to keep your smile happy and healthy. Eriks Dental Group in Fort Lauderdale is your one-stop-shop for everyone in the family. From baby’s first teeth, to Grandma’s first set of dentures, we treat everyone!

To schedule your appointment, or ask about our dental services, call today at 954-463-5051.