The type of food you consume is one of the things that determines how fresh your breath will be. Foods that have strong flavours and odours are common culprits of bad breath. However, some of these foods are highly nutritious and should remain in your menu. Below is a guide on how you can control bad breath caused by some foods, and so you don't have to kick them off your diet.
Onions and Garlic
Onions and garlic have sulphur compounds that are behind the awful smell that builds up after consumption. The longer these compounds stay in your mouth, the more the bad breath will worsen. Remember that raw onions and garlic cause a stronger smell than cooked ones.
A good solution to this problem is taking your food with water. If you notice that the menu has onion- or garlic-based salads, then eat your food with some water on the side. Sip the water now and then so that you can wash down food particles that get stuck in the mouth and between your teeth. Chewing gum is also helpful in clearing food particles and also gives you minty breath.
Fish
Fish is a major culprit of bad breath and so is its supplements. The fishy smell tends to linger for long and may at times persist even after brushing your teeth. In case the toothpaste doesn't work, use a mouthwash or a breath freshener after brushing. Also, when you prepare your fish meals at home, squeeze in fresh lemon juice to reduce the severity of the odour. Flossing after your meal also helps a lot because it removes any debris stuck between teeth that often leads to bacteria build-up.
If you're on fish oil supplements, you can go for capsules instead of the liquid type. Freezing the capsules before you take them is also very helpful, and it does not compromise the potency of the supplements.
Caffeinated Drinks
Caffeine is one of the culprits that trigger or worsen bad breath. Bad breath results from caffeine-induced mouth dryness. A dry mouth means that there is no sufficient saliva to moisten the mouth and clean out food particles that remain after a meal. Drink water after taking your cup of coffee or tea. Also, reduce the amount of sugar you use or avoid it completely because it worsens the stickiness of beverages. Flushing your mouth with water is helpful because it helps clear bacteria from the mouth.
Learning the oral health precautions to take after your meal will greatly help you maintain a fresh breath all day long. If you continue experiencing issues with bad breath, consider talking with a dentist like Dr David Young & Associates Dental Surgeons.
Share
