August 6th is National Fresh Breath Day

Are you embarrassed by bad breath? You’re not alone. Between 35%-45% of people worldwide experience bad breath. 90% of people with bad breath spend over $400 annually trying to keep odors at bay. August 6th is National Fresh Breath Day to raise awareness of halitosis. Here are 5 culprits of halitosis and what you can do to keep your breath fresh.

1. Tooth Decay

Cavity-causing bacteria can erode your enamel, causing tooth decay. The breakdown of your tooth can cause an unpleasant odor. You may also experience sensitivity or pain when placing pressure on a tooth.

2. Dehydration

Your mouth relies on moisture to stay healthy. Dehydration can reduce saliva production, which can cause your mouth to become too dry. This creates a great environment for oral bacteria growth, which can lead to bad breath.

3. Smoking

Tobacco can cause odors to linger in your mouth. Besides bad breath, smoking increases your risk of tooth decay, gum disease, stains, and oral cancer.

4. Diet

The foods and drinks you consume can contribute to bad breath. Sugars and starches feed bacteria responsible for cavities. Not to mention, some can cause temporary bad breath, like onions or garlic.

5. Infections

Oral infections can be the reason behind ongoing bad breath. You may also have a foul taste in your mouth. An abscessed tooth or gum disease can cause much more than halitosis. You can be at risk of tooth loss.

How to Prevent Bad Breath

Everyone has bad breath occasionally. You can avoid it by keeping a few tips in mind:

• Commit to Good Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth at least twice a day for 2 minutes. Floss between each two to remove bacteria and food debris missed by your toothbrush. It will keep your teeth and gums healthy.
• Follow a Healthy Lifestyle: Eat nutritious foods and limit your consumption of sugars and starches. Don’t smoke or drink a lot of alcohol to prevent a dry mouth.
• Stay Hydrated: Healthcare professionals recommend drinking at least eight 8oz glasses of water daily to keep your mouth moist and your body hydrated
• Visit Your Dentist: Schedule an appointment with your dentist every 6 months for a cleaning and checkup. They’ll keep your teeth clean while ensuring there aren’t any untreated oral health issues hiding in your mouth. They can also provide you with additional tips to keep your breath fresh.

With good oral hygiene and a healthy lifestyle, you’ll never think twice about bad breath.

About Dr. Bob Heil

Dr. Heil achieved his dental degree at the University of Minnesota and has completed advanced education in sleep medicine, sedation dentistry, and many other specialties. He is a proud member of the American Dental Association, the Wisconsin Dental Association, and the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine. Request an appointment online or call (920) 289-3066.