Anyone can be affected by bad breath. Mints and mouth sprays can only do so much to hide bad breath. To prevent bad breath, you need to fix the problem at its root cause. The smelly odor is caused by bacteria waste and decayed food debris. Here are four easy ways you and your children can avoid this persistent problem through oral hygiene.

1. Brush Regularly.

It may seem like a no-brainer that we should all brush our teeth twice a day and floss daily. However, many people forget that your gums and tongue need to be brushed, too. In fact, most bacteria and plaque build up below the gumline. Gently brushing your teeth and gum line for approximately 2 minutes twice a day will keep your breath crisp and keep your mouth healthy. Be sure to use a soft-bristled brush since hard bristles can damage gums.

2. Use a Tongue Scraper.

Plaque doesn’t just get stuck on your gums and teeth, it can get packed between your taste buds, too. If brushing doesn’t do the trick, use a tongue scraper after every meal to remove bacteria, food, and plaque. Just remember to clean your tongue scraper after each use. Wash it with warm water and soap and dry it completely. That way, no mold can accumulate. 

3. Avoid Smelly (and Sugary) Foods.

We all know what we eat can affect our dental and overall health. Garlic and onion may smell bad, but the real perpetrator of bad breath is sugar! Soda, candy, bread, and desserts are made with sugars that bacteria feed on. This sugar can cause cavities and bad breath. Stay away from sugary drinks and candies as much as possible or at least brush promptly after you eat them. Drinking water or chewing sugar-free gum will also help wash away food debris and stimulate saliva.

4. Don’t Neglect Regular Cleanings.

That tingly feeling of a professional;y cleaned mouth cannot be matched by anything you do at home.  Your daily oral hygiene can make a big difference for mouth odor, but you still need to be evaluated regularly by a dental professional.  Dentists have the equipment and training to spot problem areas before they get serious and treat them properly. Attend dental appointments every six months to ensure that your mouth is clean and healthy. 

If you haven’t seen the pediatric dentist in a while, you can make an appointment with Kids Healthy Teeth in Katy, TX!