Bad breath. It’s the root of all evil during first dates, important business meetings, and romantic smooches. All of us are prone to having foul smelling breath on occasion, yet not everyone knows how to get rid of it.
Here’s a secret: The best tool to use to get rid of bad breath is very cheap, and can be found at any convenience store. It’s called dental floss.
Floss is your single best ally in the fight against bad breath because it is extremely effective in removing lingering food particles which cause bad breath. It really is a simple, quick way to keep yourself from offending friends, family, and colleagues alike.
Dieters can also greatly benefit from regular flossing, because not only will it remove bacteria that can cause tooth decay, but mint-flavored versions can distract from the bad breath that low-carb diets are commonly known to produce. Not only that, the fresh taste may even prevent unnecessary snacking, paving the way to greater weight-loss success.
Next to daily flossing, hydration is another known bad breath killer. Saliva is essential. When saliva is lacking, dry mouth sets in — making plaque and bacteria more likely to accumulate in the mouth, which in turn produces unpleasant breath. Some of the most common situations in which saliva may be in short supply are when:
- Alcohol is being consumed.
- When you are especially thirsty or hungry.
- First thing in the morning.
Bear in mind that some cases of bad breath could be indicative of a more serious underlying health or dental concern such as strep throat, oral cancer, tooth decay, gum disease, diabetes, HIV, or digestive trouble. Therefore, if you are experiencing chronic halitosis despite following a rigorous dental care routine, it may be time to consult with a professional.
Given the significant social, self-esteem, health and dental benefits that can come from regular flossing, there really is no reason not to make it a cornerstone of your daily dental care routine.
To learn about THE SCIENCE OF SMILES® in Pasadena, give us a call at (626) 624-4030 or make an appointment.
THE SCIENCE OF SMILES® offers affordable cosmetic and laser dentistry and gentle, compassionate general dental care in Pasadena, CA. Our office is conveniently located with extended hours to meet your needs. At THE SCIENCE OF SMILES®, we provide most dental services, from basic preventative care and general dentistry to specialized procedures and complete dental reconstruction. Patient satisfaction is our top priority and we strive to provide the exceptional, affordable dental care and personal touch that lead to lasting relationships. A smiling patient is our greatest reward and we look forward to keeping those smiles healthy, beautiful, and bright. Discover an affordable dentist who truly cares at THE SCIENCE OF SMILES®.