The month of love is here! Stores are filled with heart-shaped balloons, candy, teddy bears and more in honor of Valentine’s Day. Do not let bad breath ruin your sweet occasion. Show your teeth some love!
Bad breath, or halitosis, is a common condition resulting from odor-causing bacteria in the mouth. Bad breath can have a range of
causes; although, a poor dental hygiene regime usually accounts for most cases. Plaque buildup, food debris, dry mouth, acid reflux, medications and mouth breathing are factors of bad breath. When halitosis is persistent, it can be an indication of underlying health problems, such as gum disease.
If you do not brush and floss often, bacteria growth begins to produce an unpleasant odor. This can cause you to feel self-conscious and unattractive. Certain lifestyle habits including smoking, alcohol consumption and fad diets also can lead to bad breath. Give your grin some love by adopting good oral hygiene practices. Brush your teeth two times a day for two minutes, limit snacking and floss once a day. Do not forget to lightly brush your tongue, as it plays an important role in reducing bad breath.
Here are five ways to pamper your smile and keep your breath fresh:
- Stay hydrated. Not drinking enough water can dry up saliva and give you bad breath.
- Skip sweets. Sugar acts as a catalyst for bacteria growth.
- Limit foods with strong odors, such as garlic, uncooked onion and foods with too many spices.
- Chew sugarless gum with xylitol.
- See your dentist at least twice a year.
If you have bad breath and cannot identify the source, schedule a visit with a dental professional. A dentist can determine what is causing your bad breath and recommend treatment options. Your dentist and hygienist also can demonstrate the proper brushing and flossing techniques to care for your smile at home. Whether you are heading out on a date or spending time at home with friends and family, dedicate time to your smile!
– Dr. Scott Merritt founded BridgeMill Dentistry in 2002. The office is located on Sixes Road between Ridge and Bells Ferry roads.
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