Bad Breath

• Practice good oral hygiene. Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste to remove food debris and plaque. Brush teeth after you eat (keep a toothbrush at work or school to brush after lunch). Don’t forget to brush the tongue, too.

• Replace your toothbrush every 2 to 3 months or after an illness. Use floss or an interdental cleaner to remove food particles and plaque between teeth once a day. Dentures should be removed at night and cleaned thoroughly before being placed in your mouth the next morning.

• See your dentist regularly — at least twice a year. He or she will conduct an oral exam and professional teeth cleaning and will be able to detect and treat periodontal disease, dry mouth, or other problems that may be the cause of bad mouth odor.

• Stop smoking and chewing tobacco-based products. Ask your dentist for tips on kicking the habit.

• Drink lots of water. This will keep your mouth moist.

• Keep a log of the foods you eat. If you think they may be causing bad breath, bring the log to your dentist to review.

• Similarly, make a list of the medications you take. Some drugs may play a role in creating mouth odors.

• The best method to reduce halitosis is good oral hygiene. This ensures that cavities are avoided and reduces the likelihood of gum disease.

• It is recommended that individuals visit the dentist for a check-up and cleaning twice a year.

• The dentist may recommend a toothpaste that includes an antibacterial agent or an antibacterial mouthwash.

• Alternatively, if gum disease is present, professional cleaning may be necessary to clear out the build-up of bacteria in pockets between the gums and teeth.