Halitosis, the medical term for bad breath is something everyone detests. It is primarily caused by poor dental hygiene but can also be a sign of some underlying health issue. An unhealthy lifestyle makes the situation worse. Smoking, pan masala chewing and alcohol contribute to this problem and only worsens it. Preventing bad breath should, in this case, should be a must.
Digestion in Humans begins right from the mouth. The food begins to break down when it comes in contact with saliva and until the food has been digested the smell remains. Some food items like onions and garlic which has a very strong odour add to the bad breath. Brushing, Flossing or using mouthwash can temporarily cover the smell.
There are many ways to prevent Bad Breath:
Brush your teeth properly: Brushing teeth twice a day is the best defence against bad breath. Cleaning the Tongue is as much important as brushing your teeth. During the course of the day, the tongue accumulates lots of bacteria which can cause Bad breath.
Floss your teeth: Flossing is another important component to good mouth health. Flossing removes the plaque and bacteria build-up from between your teeth, which even the best toothbrushes can’t get rid of. Do this at least once a day before going to bed. One can also use a water floss which is a motorized water flusher, to clean between the teeth by a jet stream.
Get regular dental check-ups: Going to the dentist is important to maintaining your oral health, a primary factor in bad breath. A dentist, or dental hygienist, will perform a thorough cleaning of your teeth, gums, and mouth. Missing out on Dental Appointments is never a good idea. A yearly once ultrasonic scaling and polishing of the teeth are highly recommended.
Drink lots of Water: Coffee, Soda or Alcohol contribute greatly to the built of bad odour from the mouth. Drinking lots of water prevents your mouth from getting dry and washes away the food residue in the mouth which builds up the Bacteria.