Bad breath can be a real downer, especially if it is noticable to family and friends. It can, however, be prevented or at least controlled. Bad breath, or as doctors call it- "halitosis", is caused by odor-producing bacteria that grow in your mouth. This bacteria gathers on bits of food in your mouth and between your teeth and releases sulfur compounds which make your breath smell. Some foods, like garlic and onions, may contribute more to bad breath because of oils released by those foods. Smoking is another major cause of bad breath.
Here are some myths and truths surrounding bad breath:
Myth #1: Mouthwash will make my breath smell better
Mouthwash will make your breath smell better, but it is only a temporary fix. You will still need to brush and floss regularly, as mouthwash alone will not kill all the odor causing bacteria in your mouth. When choosing a mouthwash, pick an antiseptic with plaque-reducing compounds. Also make sure any dental products you choose come with the American Dental Association (ADA) seal of approval!
Myth #2: If I brush my teeth, I will never have bad breath
Brushing your teeth can definitely help prevent bad breath, but the truth is most people only brush their teeth for about 30-45 seconds! You need to brush your teeth at least two times a day for about 2 minutes to give your teeth a thorough cleansing. It's also very important to brush your tongue, which is where the majority of odor causing bacteria like to hang out. Lastly, flossing to remove food and plaque between the teeth will also help reduce your chances of having bad breath!
Here are some myths and truths surrounding bad breath:
Myth #1: Mouthwash will make my breath smell better
Mouthwash will make your breath smell better, but it is only a temporary fix. You will still need to brush and floss regularly, as mouthwash alone will not kill all the odor causing bacteria in your mouth. When choosing a mouthwash, pick an antiseptic with plaque-reducing compounds. Also make sure any dental products you choose come with the American Dental Association (ADA) seal of approval!
Myth #2: If I brush my teeth, I will never have bad breath
Brushing your teeth can definitely help prevent bad breath, but the truth is most people only brush their teeth for about 30-45 seconds! You need to brush your teeth at least two times a day for about 2 minutes to give your teeth a thorough cleansing. It's also very important to brush your tongue, which is where the majority of odor causing bacteria like to hang out. Lastly, flossing to remove food and plaque between the teeth will also help reduce your chances of having bad breath!
Myth #3: If I don't smell it, than my breath is fresh
This is a false assumption because the breath you exhale when you breath out is not the same as the breath that leaves your mouth when you talk. When you breathe, you are not using your throat as much as you do when you are talking. When you talk, more breath moves over the back of your mouth where the bacteria causing the odor are located.
TRUTH #1: Brush your teeth at least twice a day (for at least 2 minutes, and don't forget the tongue), floss at least once a day, and visit your dentist every six months...This way your breath stands the best chance of always being fresh!
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