A: The following are some of the most common ways to prevent bad breath:
- Practice good oral hygiene. Brush at least twice a day with an ADA approved fluoride toothpaste and toothbrush. Floss daily to remove food debris and plaque from in between the teeth and under the gum line. Brush or use a tongue scraper to clean the tongue and reach the back areas. Replace your toothbrush every 2 to 3 months. If you wear dentures or removable bridges, clean them thoroughly and place them back in your mouth in the morning.
- See Dr. Clyde regularly to keep your breath fresh. It is recommended to get a check-up and cleaning at least twice a year. If you have or have had periodontal disease, Dr. Clyde may recommend more frequent visits.
-Stop smoking and/or chewing tobacco. Ask Dr. Clyde what he recommends to help break the habit. - Drink water frequently. Water will help keep your mouth moist and wash away bacteria.
- Use mouthwash/rinses. Some over-the-counter products only provide a temporary solution to mask unpleasant mouth odor. Ask Dr. Clyde about antiseptic rinses that not only alleviate bad breath, but also kill the germs that cause the problem.
In most cases, Dr. Clyde can treat the cause of bad breath. If it is determined that your mouth is healthy, but bad breath is persistent, Dr. Clyde may refer you to your physician to determine the cause of the odor and an appropriate treatment plan.