Ask the Dentist: How to get rid of bad breath?

 

Bad breath, also known as halitosis, is something almost everyone experiences at some point. It can be embarrassing and affect your confidence in social and professional situations.

Common Causes of Bad Breath

Understanding the root of the problem is the first step. Bad breath can be caused by:

• Poor oral hygiene – leftover food particles and bacteria cause unpleasant odours.
• Dry mouth – saliva helps wash away bacteria; a lack of it leads to odour.
• Food & drinks – onions, garlic, coffee, and alcohol can linger.
• Smoking – not only causes bad breath but also increases oral health risks.
• Medical conditions – gum disease, tooth decay, sinus infections, acid reflux, or other illnesses.

Tips to Get Rid of Bad Breath

1. Brush and floss regularly: Brush your teeth morning and night with fluoride toothpaste, and floss
2. daily. Remember to clean your tongue too, since it often harbours bacteria that cause bad breath.
3. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day. A hydrated mouth produces more saliva, which naturally helps clean away bacteria.
4. Freshen up between meals: Sugar-free gum or mints can stimulate saliva and mask odour.
5. Watch what you eat and drink: Limit foods known to cause odour (like garlic and onions) before important events. Reduce alcohol and coffee intake, both of which dry out the mouth.
6. Quit smoking: Tobacco causes lasting odours in both the mouth and windpipe. Quitting benefits not only your breath but also your overall health.
7. Use mouthwash (the right way): Using an antibacterial mouthwash can help reduce bacteria and freshen your breath, but it should never replace brushing and flossing.
8. Visit your dentist regularly: Persistent bad breath can be a sign of gum disease, cavities, or other
9. conditions. Routine dental visits allow early detection and treatment of underlying issues.

When to see a dentist

Bad breath that doesn’t improve with oral care may be linked to a deeper health problem such as gum diseases or cavities. Consult a dentist if you notice persistent odour, swollen or bleeding gums. With consistent oral hygiene and routine dental visits, you can enjoy a healthier mouth and fresher breath.

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Dr Tan Kian Meng is a Dental Specialist in Prosthodontics with Specialist Dental Group®. He is also a Clinical Lecturer at the National University of Singapore and Diplomate with the American Board of Prosthodontics. He was formerly a Consultant at Singapore’s Khoo Teck Puat Hospital and Fellow of Maxillofacial Prosthetics and Oncologic Dentistry Fellowship at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. Dr Tan has special interest in prosthetic and implant restorative dentistry. http://www.specialistdentalgroup.com | (65) 6733 7883