Get Rid of Bad Breath Fast With Tips From a Dentist in Grand Prairie

Bad breath (also called halitosis) affects everyone at some time or another and is a universal concern. In any personal or professional situation, you want people to notice you for your good qualities, not bad breath! Many people feel too embarrassed to ask a dentist in Grand Prairie about it during a checkup, but there’s no need to feel uncomfortable. You’ll also get some great information in this blog about the most common reasons for bad breath and what you can do about them. With this information, you’ll be one step closer to fresher breath and more confidence!

Dry Mouth

Saliva washes away plaque and odor-causing bacteria, but you lose this natural cleansing when you have dry mouth. In fact, most people get temporary dry mouth each night when they’re sleeping, which partly explains “morning breath.” And, if your dry mouth persists throughout the day, you’re much more likely to develop chronic bad breath.

The solution? Start by staying well hydrated and keep sugar-free chewing gum on hand to stimulate salivary flow. There are also oral care products you can get at the store that are designed specifically for dry mouth, including toothpaste, mints, and mouthwashes that will help your mouth stay moist.

Poor Oral Hygiene

In many cases, the source of bad breath is plaque and tartar, which are mainly made of bacteria. If your oral hygiene isn’t effective, you’re leaving this bacteria behind. Make sure you’re brushing your teeth (and tongue!) at least twice a day for two minutes.

And since brushing only removes about 2/3 of the bacteria in your mouth, you have to floss to remove the other 1/3!

Also, getting regular checkups and cleanings is incredibly important because the plaque and tartar you can’t clean at home is removed. This alone will go a long way towards fresher breath!

Diet

Garlic, onions, and even coffee all contribute to temporary bad breath. You don’t have to stop consuming these things completely, but be mindful about having them before you’ll be talking to other people up close.

Gum Disease

Gum disease makes it easy for plaque, tartar, and bacteria to accumulate deep under the gumline where your toothbrush and floss can’t reach, so even good oral hygiene habits at home can’t always help.

That’s why it’s even more crucial than usual to get regular dental care. First, you’ll be regularly screened for gum disease at these visits. Second, hard-to-reach areas will be thoroughly cleaned to remove odor-causing bacteria that you can’t remove at home.

General Health Conditions

There are many health conditions that can lead to bad breath, including liver or kidney disorders, acid reflux, sinus conditions, and diabetes. By talking with a dentist or doctor, you can rule these conditions out or get the appropriate treatment.

Bad breath can impact anyone’s confidence and affect every area of life. By identifying the root cause, you’ll take care of the problem for good!