Bad breath, also known as halitosis, can be a huge issue, particularly when you’re going to cuddle with your sweetheart or whisper a joke to a buddy. The good news is that bad breath can usually be avoided by following a few simple procedures.
Bad breath is caused by bacteria that produce odours in the mouth. Bacteria grow on the bits of food left in your mouth and between your teeth if you don’t brush and floss regularly. Your breath stinks because of the sulphur compounds generated by these bacteria. Because the oils are taken to your lungs and out through your mouth, some foods, particularly aromatic oils like garlic and onions, can lead to foul breath. Smoking is another important contributor to foul breath.
There are numerous fallacies around the treatment of foul breath. Here are three myths regarding bad breath that you should know about:
Myth #1: Mouthwash will get rid of bad breath – Mouthwash only masks unpleasant breath for a short time. If you must use mouthwash, search for one that is both antiseptic (kills the germs that cause foul breath) and plaque-reducing. When determining which dental goods to add to your cart, consult your Edmonton dentist for suggestions.
Myth #2: You shouldn’t have a foul breath as long as you brush your teeth – Most people only clean their teeth for 30 to 45 seconds, which is insufficient. Brushing for at least 2 minutes twice a day is recommended to clean all surfaces of your teeth adequately. Brush your tongue as well; bacteria like to hang out there. Brushing alone will not eliminate dangerous plaque and food particles lodged between your teeth and gums. Therefore flossing is equally necessary.
Myth #3: You can tell if you have terrible breath by breathing into your hand – Wrong! When you breathe, your throat is not used in the same manner as when you speak. When you converse, you tend to draw out odours from the back of your mouth (where the foul breath comes from), which is something that is simply breathing does not accomplish. It’s also difficult to discern if someone has poor breath because we become accustomed to our odours.
If you’re worried about foul breath, make sure your teeth and mouth are properly cared for. Sugar-free gums and mints can also conceal odours briefly. If your bad breath persists despite brushing and flossing properly and visiting your dentist at Clareview Dental for regular cleanings, you may have a medical problem such as sinusitis or gum disease. If you suspect a concern, contact your dentist in Edmonton. They can determine if something else is causing your bad breath and assist you in treating it. Call us at 780-475-9216 to book an appointment.
