Posted on 2/2/2013 by Implant & Periodontal Associates NW
Whether it's dinner and dancing or just a relaxing evening at home, chances are it involves a smooch or two. Here are some tips to make sure your breath is as sweet as possible.
1.
Stay hydrated: A dry mouth is often a stinky mouth, and there's no better way to keep it moist than by drinking plenty of water. Water also helps wash away food particles and oral bacteria that can contribute to bad breath. Brush your tongue: Food residue can also settle in the tongue and leave a lingering odor even after you've brushed your teeth. Brushing or scraping your tongue can eliminate the source of the smell.
2.
Floss daily: A toothbrush can only get you so far. If you don't floss, you're leaving plaque and bacteria on approximately 40% of tooth surfaces. Over time, plaque can build up and harden to the point where it can only be removed by a professional cleaning. The more plaque that remains on your teeth, the stinkier your breath.
3.
Chew sugarless gum: Go ahead and order the garlic chicken. Gum is a great way to cover up temporary bad breath after a meal. In addition to the minty freshness, sugarless gum helps eliminate food debris and oral bacteria. Keep up on your cleanings: Bad breath is one of the most common side effects of gum disease, and because it progresses slowly, you may not even notice the odor. A professional cleaning can often clear up even the worst cases of bad breath, and regular visits can keep the odor from coming back.
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