Your Guide to Fresh Breath: Practical Tips for Everyday Oral Care

Have you ever felt the unexpected sting of bad breath, even with a diligent oral care routine? We get it.

That bitter taste can catch you off guard, impacting your confidence in crucial moments.

Even individuals with impeccable oral hygiene may find themselves grappling with bad breath at specific times of the day, often triggered by certain foods and activities.

The unpleasant taste in our mouths can leave us feeling unprepared and less confident.

To assist you in maintaining fresh breath throughout the day, we’ve compiled a guide on preventing bad breath.

Stay Hydrated

A dry mouth is a common culprit for unpleasant odours, as insufficient saliva creates an environment conducive to plaque bacteria that produce Volatile Sulphur Compounds (VSCs), the culprits behind bad breath.

Dentists recommend consuming plenty of water daily and avoiding caffeinated beverages to keep the mouth hydrated and smelling fresh.

Thoroughly Clean Your Mouth

Proper oral hygiene is paramount in combating bad breath caused by bacterial buildup and trapped food particles between teeth.

Follow these steps:

• Rinse your mouth with fresh water before brushing to eliminate bacteria and make it easier for the brush to remove debris later.
• Brush your teeth at least twice a day for a minimum of three minutes, covering every tooth, the tongue, and the palate. Use fluoride toothpaste to clean and strengthen your teeth.
• The importance of tongue care is frequently overlooked in oral hygiene routines. Yet, bacteria that cause bad breath and other oral health problems thrive on the tongue. Employing a soft-bristled brush or a tongue scraper facilitates the removal of these germs. Gently position the brush on the tongue’s surface and move it in circular motions to eliminate debris. Make this a part of your morning and evening oral care routine, following tooth brushing.
• Floss meticulously to remove food particles between teeth, and use fresh mouthwash for a refreshing breath.
• Use one teaspoon of baking soda dissolved in a glass of water as a mouthwash to treat severe bad breath.

Eliminate Unhealthy Habits

Smoking not only leaves your mouth smelling like nicotine but also depletes vitamin C, which fights odour-producing bacteria. Additionally, smoking introduces toxins that promote bacterial growth in the mouth.

Alcohol can damage your mouth by destroying surface cells on the tongue, making it susceptible to bacterial accumulation.

Choose the Right Foods

Certain foods can contribute to or combat bad breath:

• Foods like garlic and onions, high in sulphur, can lead to foul breath.
• Consume vitamin C-rich fruits and vegetables to enhance mouth health. Fiber and vitamin B-loaded foods are also beneficial.
• Fresh aromatic herbs like spearmint, coriander, and eucalyptus can improve breath.

Maintain Saliva Flow

Saliva acts as a natural bactericide, oxygenating the mouth and eliminating anaerobic bacteria while cleaning away dead cells and debris.

A dry mouth is more prone to bad breath, so:

• Keep your mouth moist by stimulating saliva with sugar-free mints or fresh water.
• Stay vigilant about oral health, and consult your dental hygienist for additional tips on combating bad breath.

These tips provide a starting point for addressing halitosis, but remember to consult with your dental professional for personalised advice.

Oral Care in Melbourne CBD

Having fresh breath not only makes you feel good about yourself but also shows that you take good care of your teeth.

By doing the things mentioned here and seeing your Melbourne CBD dentist regularly, you can make sure your breath stays fresh and your smile looks great.

At Art De Dente Melbourne CBD, we want to help you keep your teeth healthy so you can start each day with a beautiful and fresh smile.

Call us on (03) 9642 8955 or request an appointment online.

We are located at Level 17, 190 Queen Street in Melbourne CBD.