Posted

Do you know a friend, coworker, or family member with bad breath? The development of foul breath could be caused by an array of factors, but studies show 80% of halitosis (chronic bad breath) cases develop orally. In some cases, conditions such as acid reflux or even liver disease can lead to the development of halitosis. Your Riverside dentist, Dr. Jay Elliot shares a few tips on how to avoid bad breath.

Avoid Bad Breath with an Oral Care Regimen

Improving oral health and hygiene is important for a number of reasons. Researchers continue to uncover links between oral health and overall health, connecting oral issues such asgum disease to other systemic health issues, including heart disease. Many people brush twice per day, but simply are not doing enough to ensure their entire mouth is clean and healthy.

  • In addition to twice-a-daily brushing, flossing is recommended at least once each day. Flossing plays a significant role in removing bacteria and excess food particles in between teeth and near the gum line. Bacteria feed on nutrients from your meals, releasing gases that cause foul odor. Failing to floss daily can increase your risk of developing offensive foul breath.
  • Unbeknownst to many patients, the American Dental Association now recommends use of an anti-microbial mouthrinse following brushing. Using an ADA-approved rinse is proven to aid in reducing bacterial plaque and gingivitis.

Change Your After-Dinner Habits

Many patients love to indulge in an after-dinner mint, but mints and sugarless chewing gum can do no more than temporarily cover your bad breath. Nevertheless, chewing sugarless gum after a meal will stimulate saliva flow, which assists in the removal of bacterial plaque and food debris. Increased saliva also assists in the prevention of tooth decay.

Schedule Your Visit

If you’re looking for more information on how to avoid halitosis, or simply due for a checkup, Dr. Elliot can help. At Dental Associates of Riverside, we offer comprehensive dental care for our patients, and multi-specialty dentistry. Contact our 92506 dentist office by calling (951) 369-1001 to schedule an appointment today. We proudly serve patients from Riverside, and surrounding communities.