Bad breath is an issue that we all face at some point in our lives. Whether your bad breath is occasional or frequent, there are steps you can take to prevent bad breath from occurring. Your breath can tell you a lot about your overall dental health. Learn what causes bad breath, and when to consult a professional dentist for treatment options below:
Morning Breath
Morning breath occurs because our saliva production slows when we are sleeping. Because we are not eating or speaking in our sleep, our mouths can become dry. Dry mouth is the perfect breeding ground for odor-causing bacteria to fester. This is why we recommend brushing your teeth as soon as you get out of bed. Yes, this means before eating breakfast. Brushing your teeth before breakfast will get rid of the excess bacteria in your mouth and coat your teeth with a protective barrier against the acids in your food. Drinking lots of water before bed can help reduce your risk of developing a dry mouth as you sleep. Using a tongue scraper at night can also help freshen your breath before you go to sleep.
Preventing Bad Breath
Patients should practice their best at-home oral hygiene routines to prevent bad breath from occurring on a daily basis. Your diet also impacts your breath. Pay attention to the foods you are eating, and avoid eating especially pungent foods before bed. Rinsing your mouth out with water throughout the day and chewing sugar-free gum between midday meals can help keep your breath fresher for longer. When all else fails, brushing and flossing thoroughly should help improve your breath. If it doesn’t, you may need to contact your Lexington, KY dentist.
Frequent Bad Breath
Bad breath should not occur often. If it does, this may be a sign that you have an underlying dental concern. Dental concerns like gum disease or tooth decay can cause bad breath. You should inform your dentist if you notice a consistent bad taste in your mouth or if your breath does not improve even after improving your oral hygiene routine. Dr. Doyle Freano can provide you with the treatment options you need to address your dental concerns, freshen your breath, and help you improve your overall dental health. If you are looking for a general dentist in Lexington, KY, schedule an appointment with Dr. Freano.