You’ve got a lot of first impressions to make this year, but that can be daunting to look forward to if you’re worried about bad breath making those impressions for you. It’s a problem we’ve all had at one time or another, when we couldn’t resist the garlic or onions right before a meeting, but if bad breath is a consistent problem, we’ve got some suggestions to help you manage and avoid it.
Brush & Floss After Meals
This can be a hassle if you’re not prepared, but one of the best remedies for bad breath is brushing and flossing. Make a go-bag with a toothbrush, travel-size toothpaste, and a pack of floss ahead of time. You can keep this bag in your car or in your desk at work for easier quick brushing after lunch or while you’re out. Don’t forget to brush your tongue!
Replace Your Toothbrush
Your toothbrush needs to be replaced every three to four months, at minimum. When the bristles start to fray, you’ll know it’s time to get a new one. If you keep the same toothbrush for too long, it gets less effective at fighting plaque buildup, and can even put more bacteria in your mouth and make your breath worse.
Avoid Dry Mouth
Dry mouth can have a number of root reasons, but notable causes are smoking and dehydration. Make sure you drink water alongside alcohol and coffee to stay hydrated, and sugarless hard candy or gum can help stimulate saliva flow. If you have chronic problems with dry mouth, your dentist can help you manage the condition in a way that’s best for you.
Ask Your Dentist
If you struggle with persistent bad breath that doesn’t seem to respond to your current regiment, your dentist can help discover the cause and the remedy that is best for you.
Dr. Coates and his friendly, helpful team in Long Beach, CA can assist you in developing good habits for fresh breath. You can schedule an appointment online, or call 562-434-6414.
