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As the holiday season is in full effect, are you prepared to interact closely with friends and family at your holiday parties? If you suffer from bad breath you are not alone. Bad breath, also known as halitosis, is a common, unpleasant and often times embarrassing oral health condition that has affected us all at one time or another. When food particles and other waste products aren't removed from your teeth, gums and tongue, odor-causing bacteria can result. As the bacteria accumulate, a sulfur compound is released, causing your breath to smell less than pleasant. The good news is that you don't have to let your bad breath hinder your social life any longer. For mild cases of bad breath, there are simple ways to put an end to this problem, such as improved brushing and flossing. You can start combating bad breath now with a trip to your dentist. Your dentist can help you identify the cause of your bad breath and work with you to determine a plan for eliminating the problem. Prevent Dry Mouth A dry mouth provides the perfect environment for the bacteria that causes bad breath to live and thrive. When your mouth isn't producing enough saliva, food particles that would normally be washed away remain in your mouth allowing bacteria to grow. Drink plenty of fluids, especially water, to keep your mouth moist. Or chew sugarless gum to keep saliva flowing. The chewing motion stimulates the flow of saliva, which cleanses the mouth of bacteria that causes odor. Additionally, avoid coffee and alcohol that coat your mouth and inhibit saliva as well. And if you can't survive without your caffeine kick in the morning, apt for tea, which can have the same effect but won't dry out your mouth. In fact, research shows that tea may actually help reduce bad breath. Putting an End to Halitosis Practicing good oral hygiene- brushing and flossing- is the best way to fight and eliminate bacteria that cause bad breath. Remember to pay extra attention to your tongue, brushing it to scrape away bacteria. If you wear dentures, retainers or other oral appliances make sure you clean them thoroughly before placing them back in your mouth. Lastly, but most importantly, remember to visit your Virginia Beach dentist regularly as he can detect the source of your bad breath and other dental problems that require professional care. Aside from poor oral hygiene, halitosis can also be the product of more serious medical conditions and infections, including gum disease, diabetes, kidney failure and liver malfunction. That's why regular dental checkups are crucial for maintaining good overall health. Don't let chronic bad breath hinder your social life any longer. Start by practicing better oral hygiene, and you'll see improvement in a matter of days. If your bad breath persists, ask your dentist in Virginia Beach, VA for tips to eliminate the condition. He can determine the underlying problem and decide which treatment is best to eliminate this embarrassing, but very treatable condition.
Dr. Christopher Hooper, dentist in Virginia Beach, received his Bachelor of Science in Biology from James Madison University and completed his Doctor of Dental Surgery Degree from the Medical College of Virginia School of Dentistry. Dr. Hooper, providing dental implants in Virginia Beach, also completed a post-graduate Advanced General Dentistry Residency at the University of Missouri-Kansas City.
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