|
| |
What causes
bad breath?
Most bad breath (halitosis)
comes from something in the mouth. Food sticks between your teeth, around the
gums and on your tongue. If you don't brush and floss your teeth every day, this
food can rot. The rotten bits of food cause a bad smell in your mouth. Rotten
food also helps bacteria to grow in your mouth. This bacteria can cause gum
disease, or gingivitis. Gingivitis also causes bad breath.
The things you eat and drink
affect your breath. Bad breath may also be a sign of a health problem.
What can
I do to prevent bad breath?
-
Brush your teeth at least
2 times every day, using a fluoride toothpaste. Be sure to brush along the
gum line, as well as all tooth surfaces. Each time you brush your teeth, use
your toothbrush to clean the surface of your tongue.
-
Floss your teeth at least
once a day to remove food from between your teeth.
-
Eat more fruits and
vegetables every day. Eat less meat.
-
Avoid certain foods that
cause you to have bad breath. These foods might include onions, garlic and
pastrami. Alcoholic beverages often cause bad breath.
-
Avoid using tobacco
products. Any kind of tobacco can cause halitosis.
-
Sometimes a dry mouth has
an unpleasant odor. If your mouth is dry, you can suck on sugar-free mints,
chew sugar-free gum or drink water.
-
Most mouthwashes do not
have a long-lasting effect on bad breath. If you use a mouthwash, swish it
around in your mouth for 30 seconds before spitting it out.
-
If you wear removable
dentures, take them out at night. Brush the dentures and soak them overnight
in a disinfecting solution. Removable braces should also be cleaned. Follow
the directions of your dentist.
-
See your dentist twice a
year to have your teeth cleaned.
-
If you still have bad
breath, see your family doctor to find out what is causing it.
|
