Flossing is essential not just your teeth, but your whole body
By now, we are confident that nearly every dentist or hygienist in your past has extolled the virtues of flossing your teeth. But there is one lesser known benefit to flossing that has a more immediate impact on your daily life: decreased bad breath.
For those patients who are more inspired by immediate results, this may become the final straw that convinces you to include flossing into your daily brushing routine. As we all know, flossing helps remove the food particles and bacteria that everyday brushing often cannot achieve. However, it is the breakdown of these food particles and the resulting bacteria that emit the odors that directly contribute to bad breath. Removing these particles and bacteria removes the main source of socially-embarrassing breath.
In addition to flossing, here are a few additional considerations for you to help manage your breath without a stack of mints in your pocket:
- Alcohol consumption: Alcohol contributes to dry mouth. Decreased saliva cannot combat the bacteria effectively. Help offset this effect by considering flossing before bed after drinks.
- Morning breath: Since saliva essentially stops being produced while you sleep, flossing in the morning will help alleviate the bacterial buildup.
- Stay hydrated: Dehydration decreases saliva production, a necessary tool to keep your mouth clean. By drinking more water during meals and throughout the day, this allows for optimal natural defense against bacterial production.
- Smoking: Any tobacco use will dramatically increase your bad breath, beginning with the direct impact of the tobacco smell. It also dries out your mouth, increases your risk of infection, and contributes directly to oral cancer.
Our team at Eureka Dental Group is here to make sure you have the best oral health in the Sacramento region. We hope our helpful tips inspire you to make the changes to your daily routine that guarantee the best smile (and freshest breath)!