Did you know that your tongue is usually the source of your bad breath? Bacteria like to find a home in the tiny grooves of your tongue. Those bacteria release bad-smelling odors.
If your tongue is dry, you may be more prone to an extra smelly mouth. When you eat, saliva glands produce saliva, which flushes away bacteria. This bacterium remains indefinitely until it is brushed or washed away.
BRUSH YOUR TONGUE FOR BETTER BREATH
The simple solution is to brush your tongue whenever you brush your teeth. If you brush your teeth and tongue regularly, you are brushing away bacteria and other stinky debris and therefore reducing your chance for bad breath. They produce a sulfur compound that emits an unpleasant odor. By brushing, flossing, and rinsing, you are limiting the source.
We advise patients today to brush their tongue very gently. When patients inquire about other measures to take to clean their tongue, we sometimes suggest using a tongue scraper. The intent is to remove any build-up between the taste buds and folds in the tongue. This tool is another means to remove unpleasant odors from your mouth.
Eat vegetables and fruits in between meals to keep your saliva glands in production. Drink water, chew gum or suck on a lozenge to keep your saliva in motion. If you are prone to a dry mouth due to medications or stress, be mindful of these practices to keep your mouth moistened.
CONSULT US FOR BEST PRACTICES
Come into our office to get an assessment of your dental issues. We look forward to talking to you about how to improve your breath. We can show you how to brush your teeth, gums, and tongue. We want you to practice good oral hygiene every day.