Bad Breath bad breath whatcha gonna do

It can certainly be embarrassing to be caught with bad breath, whether it’s in the morning or after you’ve had a particularly potent meal with some extra garlic and onions. Usually, a quick piece of gum or a mint can battle the smell, or a quick swish of mouthwash, but that may only be temporary. There’s more to bad breath than just eating a pungent meal and your Milpitas, CA dentist is here to help break this down.

Millions of Americans suffer from bad breath every day, usually in random intervals of their daily routine, but there are around 80 million people who suffer from chronic halitosis, affecting them at all times of the day and causing embarrassment and self-consciousness. So what’s the real cause of halitosis? Where does it come from and why is it worse than the average “bad breath”?

When halitosis occurs, the bacteria in your mouth, as well as the bacteria and particles from the things you eat and drink throughout the day, build up on your tongue, gums, and teeth. This can cause a bad smell and if it’s not properly cleaned by brushing, flossing and rinsing, then it will eventually be harder to get rid of. When bacteria builds up after a certain amount of time, it will be almost impossible to break it down and clean your mouth without visiting your dentist.

Most of the bacteria that causes bad breath lives on the far back of your tongue. After you eat and drink all day and don’t properly brush that area, you’re likely to have both a bad taste and a bad smell sticking around for much longer than you would like. Here are some tips that can help battle halitosis:

• Time yourself brushing your teeth: all professionals recommend to brush your teeth for at least two minutes in the morning and at night. Although it may seem boring, it’s very important to make sure you’re getting the best cleaning that you can!
• Purchase a mouthwash catered to bad breath: there are certain mouthwashes that have specific ingredients to help fight against halitosis. If you’re not sure where to start, don’t be afraid to ask us!
• Purchase a tongue cleaner/scraper: if you’re unable to properly brush the back of your tongue, look into tongue scrapers that are small enough and give you the ability to reach back and bring forward any lingering bacteria. Don’t forget to rinse!

Do you have any more questions about getting rid of bad breath or would like to make an appointment to see Dr. Beedu? Call your Milpitas, CA dentist today at (408) 945-4333 to speak with our office and pick the best date and time for you!