BAD BREATH WORRY: WHAT’S THE STORY?

Bad breath worry! Is very common. In a nutshell: eating smelly foods, poor brushing/flossing, dehydration, bacterial build-up on braces or dentures, gum disease, using an old toothbrush.

What causes bad breath even after brushing?
The biggest cause of bad breath is poor oral hygiene: if food particles get left between teeth, bacteria can grow between teeth, around the gums and on the tongue, producing sulphur compounds (yes, the same smell as rotten eggs!).

Is bad breath a sign of gum disease?
Yes, it can be. Bad breath or a metallic taste in the mouth which don’t go away could be a sign of gum (periodontal) disease, caused by a build-up of plaque which bacteria then attack, producing toxins which irritate the gums. The good news is gum disease can be treated if you join forces with your dentist or hygienist. Left untreated, it can result in tooth loss.

How do I know if my breath smells bad?
Two tricks: 1) Lick the bad of your hand and see if it smells once it dries; 2) Floss between your back teeth and see if the floss smells. Also, a fuzzy or whitish tongue could indicate the presence of bacteria.

Why does my breath smell so bad in the morning?
Simple! It’s usually down to a dry mouth as less saliva is produced while we sleep or to dehydration. We don’t realise it, but saliva works to clean the mouth. So, be sure to keep a glass of water at the bedside!

How do I get rid of bad breath?
Easy! Get into a good 4-step daily routine: 1) Brush; 2) Clean between teeth with floss or mini brushes; 3) Clean your tongue; 4) Use antibacterial mouthwash. Oral Hygiene Treatment

What can I do to prevent bad breath?
Here’s some other top tips: 1) Drink water to avoid dry mouth; 2) Change your toothbrush once the bristles splay; 3) Thoroughly clean braces and dentures; 4) Go for regular check-ups so any problems can be dealt with early! Make an appointment

How can I make my breath smell better without brushing?
Need a temporary quick-fix? 1) Rinse with alcohol-free mouthwash; 2) Drink water; 3) Snack on raw carrots or apples; 4) Chew sugar-free gum, mint or parsley.

What foods fight bad breath?
Raw crunchy fruit & veg act like ‘natural toothbrushes’, rubbing away plaque and dislodging food caught between teeth. Fresh mint can freshen breath while parsley can help fight sulphur compounds produced when bacteria break down food.

Why can’t I get rid of my bad breath?
If you’ve tried all of our tips for a few weeks and your bad breath hasn’t gone away, book an appointment for a chat with your dentist or hygienist.