Have you ever eaten something and almost immediately gotten a whiff of what you are sure will result in bad breath? Has a co-worker ever returned from lunch eager to talk and, before you know it, you've been hit with a not-so-fresh odor?
Bad breath, also known as halitosis, results from a number of medical and dietary factors. While it is true that what you eat and what you drink can be contributing factors, good oral health also plays a role. Changing what you consume, both beverage and food-wise, can help remedy the all too familiar problem of halitosis. However, the need for regular dental visits and cleanings is just as important as what you eat. All of these factors are essential to good dental health as well.
Dr. Bradley Matthew, DDS, MICOI is a Los Angeles based dentist whose goal is to help you maintain your oral health. There is no need for embarrassment when it comes to bad breath because Dr. Matthew, DDS, MICOI is known for providing personalized care and can help you with your dental concerns, without making you feel self-conscious. He can also give you more information on foods and beverages to avoid when trying to improve your breath. Most importantly, by visiting Dr. Matthew, he can help you maintain good dental hygiene through regular check-ups, cleanings and exams.
Onions and Garlic
These are some of the more obvious food items linked to bad breath. Even if onions or garlic are diced and mixed into your food, the oils are absorbed into the bloodstream and transferred into the lungs. This process leads to persistent bad breath until your meal has been completely digested.
Coffee
Yes, it is true. One of the most popular beverages can cause bad breath. Most coffee drinkers can expect to have bad breath after they drink their morning and afternoon coffees. The best advice: Brush your teeth and tongue after drinking coffee!
Sugary Drinks
Similar to coffee, beverages like soda are linked to halitosis. The same regimen of brushing the teeth and tongue can help resolve a potentially embarrassing problem. Mouthwash can also remove sugar on the teeth, thus killing the bacteria responsible for bad breath.
Dairy Products
Surprisingly, not only cheese but all dairy products have been linked to bad breath, and it is advised that patients reduce dairy consumption to combat halitosis.
As some say, you are what you eat, and in this case your breath is what you eat and drink. By monitoring and limiting the above food and beverage items, you reduce your chances of suffering from the unpleasant condition of bad breath. And in the instance that you can't hold back from these delectable items, it is important to 1) brush your teeth 2) brush your tongue, and 3) use mouthwash. Making these actions part of your routine will allow you to breathe easier knowing that you can talk, socialize and exhale without fear. Eat and drink your way to better breath!
The Importance of Regular Dental Check-Ups
It is crucial that you schedule an appointment with Dr. Matthew, DDS, MICOI for a dental cleaning and exam to preserve your dental health. Regular dental check-ups help to fight off plaque that causes bad breath and avoid more serious gum/teeth issues that can lead to halitosis.
Schedule An Appointment to Maintain Your Dental Health
South Bay Smiles improves patient smiles throughout all of southern California including Los Angeles, Redondo Beach, Culver City, Marina Del Rey, Santa Monica, Manhattan Beach, Venice, Hermosa Beach and surrounding areas.
Contact Dr. Bradley Matthew, DDS, MICOI at South Bay Smiles (310) 670-0659 to schedule in an appointment and learn more about preserving your dental health.