Taylor Elstermann
November 3, 2022
Unless a friend or family member brings it to your attention, you may not be aware that you have bad breath. Your breath will smell pleasant if you have less germs in your mouth. People that brush regularly, gargle, and floss their teeth after meals create a highly unfavorable environment for the bacteria that causes bad breath to flourish. Let’s get to the details.
The best outcomes won’t be obtained by brushing twice a day if it isn’t done properly. The first step to ensuring the optimum oral hygiene is to practice the proper brushing technique. Put your toothbrush on your gum line and use back and forth strokes to brush your teeth. Brush your teeth front and inner surfaces as well as the tops. Do not clean your teeth too vigorously as this might scratch your gums or even possibly damage your enamel. Make sure to brush your teeth after every meal for at least two minutes.
Cleaning the spaces in between your teeth with floss is more effective than brushing alone. If you haven’t been flossing, start right now with this easy method. Wrap the ends of the floss, which should be approximately 18 inches long, around your middle and index fingers. Gently glide the floss between your teeth while holding it securely between your thumb and fingers. When you get to the gum line, bend your floss into a C shape and slip it between your tooth and gum line.
The tongue may grow germs that produce odors if it is not frequently cleansed, which can cause foul breath. Use this quick technique to freshen your breath and clean your tongue. Use a tiny quantity of toothpaste to lightly brush the top of your tongue. Finish with a water rinse. Brush your tongue anytime to reduce the amount of bacteria in your mouth, preferably every time you brush.
While it may not be feasible to totally avoid sugary foods, you can attempt to cut down on the quantity of sugar you eat each day. The bacteria in our mouths converts sugar into acids, which will erode tooth enamel and result in tooth decay over time. Avoid carbonated beverages as well since they may cause your mouth’s acidity to increase. Making the move to non-carbonated, sugar free beverages or water and swapping out sweet snacks for fresh fruits like oranges, pineapples, or melons is a healthy habit.
Last but not least, going to the dentist at least twice a year is advised. Your mouth will be examined by the dentist for any existing issues by asking you about your symptoms and, if necessary, taking X-rays. The dentist is able to detect the early warning signals of decay and can alert and guide you on how to prevent any oncoming problems. Be sure to never skip a check-up.
Keep your toothbrush free of debris and make sure to rinse off any residual toothpaste when you are done brushing. Do not use a cover for your toothbrush. Covers may actually encourage the growth of germs and facilitate the introduction of germs into your mouth. Simply clean your brush after every use, then let it air dry. You should also refrain from sharing your toothbrush with anybody, not even your children. Everyone should have their own toothbrush.
Bristles degrade with time and with use, so if you’ve been using the same toothbrush for more than a few months, you are most likely not getting the best clean. Instead, make it a point to mark your calendar with a reminder to replace your toothbrush every three to four months, or when you see the dentist.
Call us at 407-876-2991 for an appointment or visit Tringas Orthodontics at our Orlando location in Lake Nona where we also serve St Cloud residents. We are located at 13250 Narcoossee Rd, Suite #100, Orlando, FL 32832. Our Windermere office, where we also serve Dr. Phillips, Winter Garden, Metro West and Ocoee, is located at 422 Main St, #2, Windermere, FL 34786.
Known as “Dr. T” to his patients, Andrew J. Tringas, DMD, MS, is an Orthodontist, creating outstanding smiles for his patients every day.