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12 Surprising Daily Do’s and Don’ts to Avoid Bad Breath


Dental hygiene is very important, but brushing your teeth twice a day and chewing gum may not be enough. Even after that daily routine, you may still have bad breath. There are scientifically proven cases of what may be the reasons behind bad breath.

We at Bright Side did some research and put together a list of dental hygiene do's and don'ts. Be ready to change your daily routine!

12. Drink plenty of water.

Water is never a bad idea. A sufficient amount of water stimulates your salivary flow and helps to avoid dehydration, which is often a reason for halitosis.

Advice: Make it a habit to have a few sips of water every time someone calls your name at school or at work.

11. Don't drink too much coffee.

We know that a sip of coffee is important in the morning. But don't be too keen on this drink. Caffeine can slow down saliva production and, therefore, dry out your mouth. This will lead to that breath odor. It's better to drink a cup of tea during your lunch and dinner.

Advice: Sipping green tea can also help neutralize the scent of garlic.

10. Clean your dentures.

Caring for your dentures is as important as caring for your teeth, so you should treat them accordingly. Practice the same oral hygiene that you would with your original teeth. Make a habit of cleaning them at night to get rid of bacterial buildup from food.

9. Remember to floss after every meal.

Any food particles which stay in between your teeth for too long act in the exact same way as if you left your trash bin full – they stink. The bacteria from food go deep below the gumline and may lead not only to bad breath but also to an infection. That's why flossing is no less important than brushing your teeth.

8. Change your toothbrush every 3 months.

Time flies when we are busy, and we may not notice how quickly our toothbrush gets old. An old toothbrush may be as unsafe to use as simply adding more bacteria to your mouth. So changing your toothbrush regularly is essential.

Advice: Change your toothbrush after a bout of the flu so you don't bring those old germs back to your body again.

7. Do not neglect your tongue.

When you brush your teeth in the morning, remember to clean your tongue with the tongue scraper. It has been shown to reduce odor by up to as much as 70%.

Advice: To kill 2 birds with one stone, you can get a toothbrush with a tongue and cheek cleaner on the back.

6. Go for alcohol-free mouthwash.

Many brands of mouth rinse contain up to 27% of alcohol in their ingredients. It dries out your mouth, and, as we have already learned, brings an unpleasant smell after that minty freshness wears off within an hour. So next time you shop for mouthwash, check the label thoroughly to make sure alcohol is not listed.

Advice: A mouthwash containing chlorhexidine may also stain your teeth over time.

5. Avoid sugar mints.

Sugar is normally added to the mints we are eager to take after a meal. And this is exactly what helps the bacteria in our mouth to grow. It might also make your bad breath worse once the gum or mint is gone. Thus we can make the conclusion that sweetened fresheners are not for the long run. If you must use mints, opt for the sugar-free type.

4. Be aware of the medication you are taking.

Such medications as antidepressants, painkillers, and antihistamines may suppress saliva flow and can be the reason for a chronic dry mouth.

Advice: Remember to ask your doctor about the side effects of any prescribed medications.

3. Check for tonsil stones.

If you’re not aware, tonsil stones are a mix of debris and bacteria that sit in the back of the throat. They look like white spots or bumps and smell really nasty. To prevent them from happening, just make sure you follow a proper hygiene routine and visit your dentist regularly.

2. Watch your scales.

Another risk factor for halitosis is obesity. Tel Aviv University researchers have published a study that found a direct link between being overweight and having bad breath: the more obese you are, the more likely your breath will not be as pleasant as you would like.

1. Say no to a low-carb diet.

Those who are keen on Atkins and low-carb diets will recognize the word "ketosis." This is a process which forces the body to burn stored fats and proteins for energy due to lack of carbs. If your diet is too strict, your body will release such chemicals as ketones that cause odor.


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