When you live or work closely with people, you are bound to share the same physical space. Here are 10 tips to help you ensure that bad breath does not get in the way of having meaningful and hitch-free engagements with loved ones, co-workers, and anyone else.
1. Brush & Floss Twice a Day
No, once isn’t enough. Brushing twice a day for at least two minutes is the best option. It’s also advisable to brush after you eat a meal so let your night-time brushing be after dinner. Also, floss to remove leftovers.
2. Stay hydrated
Water encourages saliva production which is important for healthy teeth because dehydration encourages bacteria, mouth odour and teeth decay. Water is also much healthier for your teeth than sugary drinks and foods.
3. Avoid Sugary Foods
Okay, this is hard because we love cakes, ice cream and other sweet stuff. So, if you have a sweet tooth and eat a lot of the good stuff, make sure you brush your teeth well after eating.
4. Get Regular Calcium and Vitamin D
Calcium is important for strong teeth, and it is available in dairy products and nuts. However, to aid calcium absorption, your body needs Vitamin D so get some sun too.
5. See a Dentist Every 6 Months
Brushing & flossing does not eliminate all the dirt from your mouth so visit a dentist regularly. This is because dentists can thoroughly clean your teeth & check for cavities, plaque & any other dental issues that need to be addressed.
6. Use Mouthwash
Mouthwash isn’t a substitute for brushing and cannot do all the work, but if you are already brushing, flossing, visiting the dentist & eating well, mouthwash is the cherry on top that will make your dental health great.
7. Limit Sodas, Coffee & Alcohol
Although some of these contain phosphorous which is good for the mouth, too much can deplete your calcium levels. In addition, they dry out the mouth and invite odour-causing bacteria to breed there and before you know it, bad breath becomes a thing.
8. Avoid Smoking
This isn’t just a big favour to your lungs but to your teeth as well because it will save you from oral cancer and periodontal complications.
9. Clean your Tongue
Use a tongue cleaner/scrub to remove countless bacteria that live, particularly on the rougher top surface of your tongue and can contribute to bad breath (halitosis).
10. Report Dental Trouble Fast
If you are having tooth and jaw pain, make an appointment as soon as possible. Your dentist needs to diagnose the underlying cause and correct it before it turns into a bigger problem.
See, it’s not that difficult. Following these practical tips are guaranteed to keep your pearls healthy, year in, and year out.
Read more: Soft Or Hard Toothbrushes: What’s Best For You?
