8 tips for eliminating bad breath this Valentine’s Day
Experts have offered strategies to minimize halitosis in time for Valentine’s Day.
The experts detailed that although halitosis is caused by bacteria breaking down food, the condition can be exacerbated by factors such as age, stress, poor diet, hormonal changes and xerostomia.
However, certain beneficial habits can help reduce halitosis. A good oral hygiene routine involves brushing the teeth with fluoride toothpaste twice per day for two minutes and flossing at least once per day to remove food particles trapped between the teeth. Individuals can also add a mouthwash to their oral health routine to manage plaque buildup and use their toothbrush or a tongue scraper to remove oral bacteria and debris from their tongue.
Additionally, the experts indicated that certain habits can help increase saliva in the oral cavity, which can naturally tackle oral bacteria and plaque. Staying hydrated can boost saliva production, thereby washing away residual food particles and mitigating the growth of odor-causing oral bacteria. Healthy foods like whole fruits and vegetables are also capable of stimulating saliva production and keeping the teeth cleaner. Opting for sugar-free gum can be a positive alternative to increase salivary flow compared with sugar-containing gum products that can adversely impact tooth health.
Avoiding or quitting smoking can help improve the breath and reduce the risk of gum irritation, periodontal disease and tooth decay. Finally, individuals were urged to adhere to regular dental visits to maintain oral health and address underlying causes of halitosis like periodontal disease or tooth decay.
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