Ever have a conversation with somebody where you feel yourself backing away because their breath is less than pleasant? We all know the feeling and we know how offensive it can be to speak to somebody with bad breath. Now think, you’ve probably been on the other end of that scenario more times than you might have realized, especially if you wear braces. So, how can you avoid bad breath even with a mouth full of metal? See below for some tips from the experts:
What Causes Bad Breath?
There is no one main culprit for what we know to be “bad breath.” There a lots of factors that contribute to unpleasant smells that stem from the oral cavity — what you eat and drink have a lot to do with it, but there are plenty of other contributors as well.
With that said, bacteria in the mouth tends to result in bad breath, but there are lots of things you can do to fight back.
Bad Breath and Braces
It can be difficult enough for people without braces to maintain a fresh mouth and adding braces into the mix makes things even more troublesome. After all, brackets and rubber bands make it much easier for food and drink ingredients to get stuck in tight spaces around the teeth and all throughout the mouth. This facet provides a breeding ground for bacteria which can result in foul odors.
How To Prevent Bad Breath
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Pay close attention to your diet. Foods high in sugar and carbohydrates tend to produce worse breath than foods high in protein, vegetables, fruits and dairy.
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Drink lots of water. A dry mouth and a dehydrated body stunt the production of saliva which works to remove bacteria as well as leftover food particles.
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Avoid consuming alcohol and smoking.
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Practice good oral hygiene. This includes brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing daily.
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Use a tongue scraper to remove bacteria from the tongue’s surface.
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Rinse with mouthwash after each brush and after each meal.
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Remember to get your teeth cleaned regularly. We recommend scheduling an appointment every six months.