Ensure you have a complete oral care routine

For the best results, brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss at least once a day. This should effectively remove the food and bacteria trapped between your teeth and around the gum line. After brushing your teeth in the morning and evening, rinse with mouthwash; you can use it either before or after you floss. It is important to remember that mouthwash is an addition to a good oral hygiene routine, not a replacement for brushing and flossing.
 

Clean your tongue

Brushing your teeth and flossing is not usually enough. The tongue is also a breeding ground for bacteria, dead cells and food debris. Use your toothbrush to brush your tongue or use a tongue cleaner.

Hydrate often

A dry mouth happens when there is not enough saliva in the mouth. This usually happens when you sleep and wake up with "morning breath." But it can occur at any time of day. Saliva is necessary to help clean your mouth and wash away food particles. Drink a lot of water throughout the day to help stimulate saliva production.

Watch what you eat

It is easy to avoid eating foods that tend to be the main culprits of bad breath, but you must also be wary of your diet. High protein and low carbohydrate diets may be good for your health but they can cause a foul odour in your mouth. Not eating enough carbohydrates will trigger your body to burn fat instead of sugar and, therefore, cause bad breath.

Visit your dentist

If you already practice good oral care habits but still have bad breath, it might be time to see your dentist to check if your bad breath is being caused by a more serious issue.

 

This article is intended to promote understanding of and knowledge about general oral health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.