Tips to Beat Bad Breath!

There’s no way around it - bad breath is embarrassing. Chronic bad breath can seem like a nemesis, constantly foiling your plans and preventing you from engaging in social activities. We know what to avoid food-wise: anchovies, onions, garlic, etc., but what else can you do? Consider these helpful tips to help you overcome bad breath and start smiling again!

1. Visit Dr Rigby's Bee Cave dental office regularly! Only a professional can remove hardened tartar (a source of bad breath) from below the gumline. We can also diagnose the source of the problem, recommend hygiene products, and devise a plan of action.

2. Brush and floss daily. This seems like a no-brainer, but let’s be honest. How often do you really floss? If you’re like most people, then it’s about as often as you flip your mattress. Debris builds up between teeth, decays, and emits a foul odor. Flossing removes the debris, and it’s absolutely essential for fresh breath.

3. Scrape your tongue. Bacteria hides beneath your taste buds, but a gentle, cost-effective tongue scraper can effectively remove a good percentage of this bacteria. Tongue scrapers last for years, and it might just be the most important thing you do to eliminate odor-causing bacteria.

4. Replace your toothbrush. Your toothbrush’s damp bristles can become a host for bacteria over time. Replace your toothbrush every 2 to 3 months for a fresh approach to fighting bad breath.

5. Use alcohol-free mouthwash. Buyers beware! Many popular mouthwashes contain alcohol, which can mask odors, but ultimately exacerbates the problem by contributing to dry mouth. Consider using an alcohol-free rinse or a baking-soda solution to actually rid your mouth of bacteria.

6. Drink water. Sipping water throughout the day can wash away debris and prevent dehydration, a common cause of bad breath.

7. Go green. Certain herbs and spices act as natural breath fresheners that kill odiferous bacteria. Try adding fresh mint, parsley, coriander, tarragon, rosemary, or cardamom to your diet. Steep these herbs in hot water for a few minutes and enjoy a breath-freshening after-dinner elixir.

8. Introduce vitamin-rich foods. Studies show that foods rich in vitamin D (yogurt, cheese, milk) and Vitamin C (citrus fruits, berries, melons) can counter bad breath and create an environment inhospitable to bacteria.

9. Avoid liquid offenders. Minimize your intake of notorious bad-breath allies like coffee, wine, and whiskey.

10. Chew sugar-free gum. While this isn’t a permanent solution, sugar-free gum can stimulate the saliva glands and provide temporary relief. And because it’s sugar-free, it won’t contribute to decay, which can heighten the problem.

Don’t be embarrassed to talk to Dr. Rigby about bad breath (known in dentistry as halitosis). It’s very common, and we’re here to help you feel good about your oral health. We can recommend products and treatments that will restore your health and your self-confidence. Call (512) 992-2822 for a complimentary consultation. Our Bee Cave dental office serves the Lake Travis and other surrounding areas.