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TREATING BAD BREATH
HOW TO GET RID OF BAD BREATH
Maintaining fresh breath goes beyond the occasional mint; it starts with diligent at-home oral care. Proper oral hygiene can help prevent bad breath, and your dentist can add extra protection. There is a variety of dental treatments and procedures used to help reverse bad breath and improve your overall dental health.
PREVENTING BAD BREATH IN THE FIRST PLACE
Regular brushing and flossing are the cornerstones of preventing bad breath, as they remove food particles and plaque that can harbour odour-causing bacteria. Incorporating an antibacterial mouthwash into your routine can further combat bacteria, offering an added layer of defence against bad breath. Consistent, proper oral hygiene coupled with regular dental check-ups can ensure your breath remains fresh, contributing to your overall dental health and confidence.
CAVITY TREATMENT
Tooth decay and cavities create a breeding ground for plaque, bacteria, and food particles, leading to bad breath. Addressing dental issues such as cavities through treatments like dental fillings can eliminate lingering bacteria, significantly improving the smell of your breath. Dental fillings not only halt cavity progression and reduce tooth decay but also contribute to immediate improvement in breath, while ongoing dental care aids in preventing plaque accumulation.
DEEP GUM CLEANING
Bad breath issues often stem from gum-related problems, where deep pockets can harbour increased bacterial presence. Routine cleaning may prove insufficient for eliminating plaque and bacteria beneath the gums. A scheduled deep cleaning effectively reduces bad breath, prevents gum disease like gingivitis, and may be recommended every one to two years based on individual gum health. You may be referred to a periodontist for advanced gum disease treatment. Remember, deep gum cleanings may be necessary for more severe cases of bad breath caused by gum disease, to thoroughly cleanse below the gumline where a routine dental cleaning might not reach.
ANTIBACTERIAL MOUTHWASH
To combat bacterial build-up and bad breath, dentists may recommend an antibacterial mouthwash, containing ingredients like triclosan, which continues to prevent bacterial growth throughout the day, and provide immediate breath refreshment. Dentists also recommend using salt water to rinse your mouth, as a natural repellent of lingering bacteria.