Bad breath, or halitosis, is a common concern that affects millions of people worldwide, undermining confidence and negatively impacting social interactions. Despite how widespread it is, many patients still find it challenging to discuss or address effectively. Fortunately, our Southgate, MI, dentists have a few bad breath solutions that are much more accessible than you might think.

Here are 6 tips for fighting bad breath and improving oral health along the way. 

1. Examine & Tweak Your Diet

Certain foods like garlic, onions, dairy, canned tuna, and more are known for causing foul breath. If you know you consume a fair amount of these items regularly, your diet could be a contributing factor to your mouth’s odor.

While it’s not possible to change your diet overnight, you can start by limiting how much bad breath causing foodsyou eat. You may also want to consider using sugar-free gum or mints after eating these types of items if thoroughly brushing your teeth is not an immediate option. 

2. Remember to Change Your Toothbrush or Brush Head 

Unfortunately, your toothbrush (or a replaceable brush head) is not meant to last forever. It must be swapped out for a new one eventually. If you’re not sure when you should upgrade, a good rule of thumb is to change your toothbrush or brush head every 3-4 months or once it has become frayed. This way it will be the most effective at keeping bad breath at bay.

The same goes for your kids. Keep an eye on what their toothbrush looks like and try to make a mental note of when either it or the brush head was purchased. 

3. Invite Mouthwash Into Your Routine

Mouthwash is best used in conjunction with daily brushing and flossing. This is because, according to the American Dental Association (ADA), mouthwash can reach areas of your mouth that your toothbrush can’t. Your risk of cavities and gum disease is then reduced.

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Using mouthwash before or after you brush your teeth does not matter. If you prefer to swish a little around after you’re done brushing, go for it. One thing our dentists do suggest choosing is a mouthwash with an ADA seal because this means the product has been proven safe and effective.

4. Hydrate Your Mouth

Dry mouth has the potential to be more than just annoying. In fact, if there is not enough regular saliva generated, dry mouth can lead to increased plaque, tooth decay, gum disease, mouth sores, and more. Oftentimes, patients experience this condition because of medication they are taking, age, or tobacco use. 

To help with dry mouth, our dentists recommend you drink plenty of water, consider chewing on sugarless gum to stimulate saliva, and visit our Southgate, MI, dental office regularly for a teeth cleaning every six months. When you’re in, we’ll be able to better monitor your dry mouth and make sure no issues arise.

5. Brush Your Tongue

Many people only think to brush their teeth, but the tongue should not be forgotten. Your tongue can hold on to a fair amount of bacteria and contribute to mouth odor so be sure to tend to it every time you brush your teeth. 

Try brushing your tongue back and forth, side to side, and be sure to rinse your mouth with water. There’s no need to “over brush”. If you do, you can risk breaking the skin and that’s not the most pleasant to deal with. 

Brushing not working as well for you? Our dentists also suggest using tongue scrapers. Both preventive dental tools are helpful in reducing bad breath. 

6. Prioritize Dental Checkups

Our dentists are huge advocates for regular teeth cleanings. By regular, we typically mean every six months although every patient is different. During these appointments, we will:

• Evaluate your overall health and oral hygiene
• Check your bite and jaw
• Screen for oral cancer
• Assess health of gum tissues
• Clean your teeth thoroughly
• Take dental x-rays if you’re due for them

If you are concerned with your bad breath and feel as though at-home oral hygiene alone is not helping, our dentists can examine your mouth and offer advice. We want you to feel your most confident and be at your healthiest so please do not hesitate to ask. 

Ask Us for Bad Breath Advice

Our dentists in Southgate, MI, are always willing to help patients in need. If you have questions about how to combat bad breath or at-home oral hygiene, we’re all ears! Call Northline Dental today at (734) 284-8088 to request an appointment.