How Can I Prevent Bad Breath?

Do you brush your teeth every time after you eat?

Do you use toothpaste with antibacterial properties?

Do you floss once a day?

Do you clean your tongue?

Do you change your toothbrush regularly when it wears out?

Do you have regular dental checkups?

Do you drink enough water to keep your mouth from drying out?

Have you reduced your intake of coffee, alcohol and soft drinks, or do you chew gum or suck on candy to stimulate saliva?

If you are a smoker, have you stopped smoking?

Do you avoid eating food that can cause bad breath (onions, garlic and certain spices)?

If you wear dentures or dental appliances, do you clean them according to the dentist's instructions?

Based on your answers, there are several other ways that can help you prevent bad breath. It is very important to brush your teeth every time after you eat. You can even keep one toothbrush at work to use it after a meal. You should use dental floss at least once a day to remove food particles and plaque between your teeth that contribute to bad breath. Bacteria can often accumulate on your tongue, so it is necessary to clean it, either by using a tongue scraper or a toothbrush that has a built in tongue cleaner. Also, toothpaste with antibacterial properties reduces unpleasant odors.

Based on your answers, you know a lot about how to prevent bad breath. Decayed teeth and oral diseases will certainly cause bad breath, so it is necessary to visit your dentist at least twice a year. If you wear dentures or dental appliances, clean them thoroughly at least once a day or as directed by your dentist. Make sure your mouth is always moist because saliva helps clean your mouth by removing particles that cause unpleasant odors. You should drink plenty of water, but reduce your intake of coffee, alcohol and soft drinks. Avoid eating food that can cause bad breath, like onions, garlic and certain spices.