Sep
Today is National Fresh Breath Day! It is easy to join in by following these easy tips we’ve compiled to help freshen your breath.
Foods like garlic and onions can be smelled on the breath for up to three days after consumption. The odors from these foods are absorbed into the blood stream and then enter the lungs. Other strong smelling offenders include pastrami, curry, horseradish, and tuna.
It’s important that you have your teeth professionally cleaned at least twice a year in order to maintain a healthy mouth. Removing the hardened plaque and tartar from your teeth can enhance your breath as well as detect any disease or infection.
This tip might seem obvious, but it can make a huge difference. Be mindful of how long you are brushing; we recommend that you brush for at least 2-3 minutes twice a day. When you are brushing, don’t forget to brush your tongue and the roof of your mouth. Don’t skip flossing, either, as the food particles and bacteria that get stuck between your teeth cause bad breath.
Foods that are high in Vitamin C are great at killing bad bacteria in your mouth. Try eating foods like broccoli, bell peppers, spinach and berries.
Drinking water helps to produce more saliva which fights bad bath. The smell-producing bacteria thrive when your mouth is dry. Drinking water also helps dislodge particles that are stuck between your teeth.
Chewing gum can dislodge the food particles that may be stuck in your mouth and stimulates salivation. Saliva is a built-in bacteria fighting remedy that helps eliminate bad breath.
Drinking alcohol dries out your mouth, which helps the bad smelling bacteria to thrive. Allowing sugars to linger in your mouth also helps produce smelly bacteria.
Tobacco use fills your mouth with chemicals that can cause oral diseases, and it also dries out the mouth which helps bacteria to flourish.
It’s common to have bad breath when you are dieting or if you skip meals. Chewing food increases the amount of saliva you produce which fights bad breath. Skipping meals causes the mouth to remain dry for longer periods of time and increases bacteria growth and bad breath.
Using a mouthwash can provide temporary relief from bad breath and can help kill bacteria that are causing your breath to stink. For best results, you should swish the mouthwash in your mouth for 30 seconds to a minute before spitting it out.
Dr. Alyssa Fisher earned her Bachelor of Science degree with a Minor in Communication from Purdue University before graduating with her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from Indiana University School of Dentistry in May 2018. Passionate about volunteering, she actively participates in service trips. Dr. Fisher is also a recipient of the Dental Economics Rising Stars Award, which recognizes her significant contributions and potential in the field of dentistry.
Dr. Lauren Goertzen earned her undergraduate degree in Biology from Butler University and then went on to receive her Doctor of Dental Medicine from Midwestern University College of Dental Medicine. During her studies, she actively participated in advanced research at both institutions. Dr. Goertzen is dedicated to providing high-quality dental care and staying current with the latest advancements in the field through continuing education. Her commitment to excellence in patient care and ongoing professional development distinguishes her in the field of dentistry.