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Good oral hygiene means keeping your mouth clean and free of disease. Good oral health helps prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and other dental problems. Here are a few tips to eliminate bad breath.

Brushing your teeth

To get rid of bad breath, you need to brush and floss regularly. Not only will it keep your mouth clean and fresh, but it will also help to remove plaque and bacteria that can contribute to unpleasant odors in your mouth. You should brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes each time. Don’t just brush the outside of your teeth; don’t forget to brush the insides of your teeth as well! Plaque can build up along the gum line, so it’s important to clean that area well to keep your breath fresh. In addition to brushing your teeth, you should also remember to brush your tongue. This will help remove food particles and bacteria from the surface of the tongue, which can also contribute to the buildup of odor-causing substances. Try using a soft-bristled toothbrush when you brush your tongue. After you’re done brushing your tongue, you can rinse your toothbrush thoroughly under running water to remove any remaining debris. 

Flossing

Most people neglect to floss and brush their tongues, but doing so is important for achieving a good oral hygiene routine and eliminating bad breath. Some causes of bad breath include food particles between teeth, inadequate brushing, poor dental hygiene, gum disease, dry mouth, and smoking. Food particles can cause bacteria to grow in your mouth. If left there, the odor from your breath will be unpleasant. When you don’t brush or floss, the food particles remain trapped between the teeth and gums, causing bacteria to grow and produce bad breath. This problem is easily fixed with flossing. 

Brushing your tongue

Brushing your tongue is just as important as brushing your teeth. A soft-bristled brush will work fine. Gently scrape from the back to the front of your tongue. This can help remove excess bacteria from the surface of your tongue. It will also remove any lingering food particles that can contribute to bad breath.

Additionally, regularly removing any debris from your tongue can also improve your breath. By eliminating these odor-causing substances, you can help your mouth smell fresh and clean.

Cleaning your dentures or dental appliances

To keep your dentures clean and free from odor, there are several things you can do to clean them effectively. Always clean your dentures over a sink filled with water to avoid breakage and dropping them. Make sure to rinse off your dentures thoroughly before and after you wear them each day. You can use a special denture cleaner to help remove any stains or bacteria on them but be sure to follow the instructions on the package. It is also important to soak your dentures overnight in a cleanser or water to help keep your mouth healthy as much as possible. Contact us to learn more!

Adjusting your diet

If you regularly consume large amounts of garlic, onions, or other pungent foods and drinks, it can negatively impact your breath by coating your mouth with bacteria. Try to avoid these foods and beverages as much as possible to keep your breath fresh and clean. If you do have to consume these types of food, brush your teeth immediately after consuming them. Also, eating lots of fruits and vegetables is a great way to maintain excellent oral health and prevent bad breath. Not only will a healthy diet contribute to your overall health, but it will also help to keep your oral health at its best.

Getting a new toothbrush

Your toothbrush should be replaced at least once every three months, even more frequently if you wear braces, use an electronic toothbrush, or are a night-time tooth grinder. Toothbrushes collect bacteria from your mouth, so it’s important to discard your toothbrush after you’ve hit that three-month mark. A worn toothbrush won’t remove as much plaque and tartar as a fresh one will.

While you’re picking up your new toothbrush, don’t forget to ask our dentist in Salem, OR, about the best type to use. If you have sensitive teeth, an electric or sonic toothbrush may be a better choice than a standard or soft-bristled brush. You can also ask about changing your brushing technique to improve the health of your gums.

Scheduling regular dental checkups.

It is important to have your regular dental checkup at Cascade Dental Group LLC to ensure your oral health is good and to address any concerns that you may have about your smile. At your checkup, you can expect dental checkups and teeth cleaning that will help you prevent bad breath.

Seeking professional help for chronic bad breath

Are you struggling with chronic bad breath despite trying various home remedies? It might be time to seek professional help from the dentist in Salem, OR, for oral health. Persistent bad breath, also known as halitosis, can be caused by underlying issues such as gum disease, cavities, or even certain medical conditions.

A dental professional can conduct a thorough examination of your mouth to identify the root cause of your bad breath. They may recommend treatments such as deep cleaning to remove plaque and tartar buildup that could be contributing to the issue. In some cases, they may refer you to a specialist for further evaluation if necessary.

Don't let chronic bad breath affect your confidence and social interactions. By seeking professional help from the dentist in 97302, you can address the underlying causes of your halitosis and work towards achieving better oral health. Remember, fresh breath starts with a healthy mouth!

If you want to learn more about us, feel free to contact our dental office today to schedule an appointment with our dentist in Salem, OR. Our doctors and team are always here to help your smile stay healthy!