a brea OF FRESH AIR

BAD BREATH CAN AFFECT US ALL but if you smoke, drink coffee, take certain medications/supplements, or eat exotic foods, your breath can suffer. Good oral hygiene practices are essential to maintaining oral health, and this is crucial as well when it comes to your breath. Here are some friendly reminders on keeping your mouth healthy and breath fresh:

WRITER Dr. Nicole Naylor

BRUSHING YOUR TEETH

Brush your teeth at least twice each day. Use a toothbrush with a soft-bristled head. This will help prevent any damage to your enamel while brushing and will reduce the risk of gum recession. Use the appropriate techniques for brushing your teeth. If you are not sure, ask your dentist to demonstrate at your next visit.

BRUSHING YOUR TONGUE

Bacteria on the tongue can break down proteins and produce sulfur compounds that are responsible for bad breath. The bacteria can also irritate the gums and cause inflammation. It is important to thoroughly clean the tongue by brushing it daily with an oral cleaner. If the smell is caused by an underlying condition such as diabetes, be sure and check with your doctor and/or dentist.

Flossing

Did you know that you should be flossing after every meal?

It’s easy to forget about this step but it is crucial for good oral health. Food can easily get stuck between your teeth, which can lead to cavities and irritation of the gum.

Cleaning Dentures And Dental Appliances

While dentures are not natural teeth, it is essential to clean them properly to avoid bad breath and other tooth decay problems. Patients should brush their dentures after every meal to remove food and plaque, which is a leading cause of tooth decay. If your dentures have metal clasps, be sure to soak them in denture cleanser or water before brushing.

Avoiding Dry Mouth

Many things can cause your mouth to feel dry including medications, certain medical conditions, and breathing through the mouth. A lack of saliva can be a problem because saliva washes away food particles and bacteria. When food particles are left behind, they can rot, creating unpleasant odors. Additionally, a lack of saliva can leave your breath feeling stale. Fortunately, there are several things you can do to stay hydrated and prevent dry mouth. Drink plenty of water throughout the day; stay hydrated to help replenish your fluids; and chewing sugar-free gum can help stimulate the production of saliva. You may also want to talk to your doctor about alternative medications if you are taking one that causes dry mouth. w

Dr. Nicole Naylor, Dr. Amber Brooks, and the entire sta at West Lake Dentistry (298 N. Hwy. 16, Suite E, in Denver) provide advanced comprehensive dental treatments for the entire family with state-of-the-art equipment and personalized care. Contact them at 704.483.1870 or visit www.WestLakeDentalCare.com.