How to Combat Bad Breath This Summer

Summer is a season of vibrant activities, outdoor adventures, and social gatherings with friends and family. However, rising temperatures and increased physical activity can also bring along an unwanted companion: bad breath. 

Nothing dampens your summer spirit quite like being self-conscious about your breath! Let’s dive into the common causes of bad breath during the summer and how to prevent it.

What Causes Bad Breath in the Summer?

Bad breath, medically known as halitosis, is caused by odor-producing bacteria present in the mouth and food particles on the tongue. 

There are many factors that can cause bad breath, including poor oral hygiene, oral health issues, smoking, and an underlying medical condition, but the summer season also brings about a couple of factors that can contribute to bad breath. 

Dry Mouth

As the temperatures rise, our bodies need more fluids, and insufficient fluid intake can result in a dry mouth. 

Dry mouth occurs when the salivary glands are unable to produce enough saliva to keep the mouth moist and clean. 

Saliva plays a vital role in removing food particles and neutralizing oral bacteria, and a lack of it can pave the way for bad breath.

Increased Consumption of Certain Foods and Beverages

Summertime comes with delicious foods and refreshing drinks. This means barbecues, grilled burgers, fresh fruits, alcohol, and other food items or beverages to help you cool down. 

But did you know that certain foods and beverages can trigger bad breath? 

Garlic, onions, spicy foods, alcohol, and sugary beverages or sweets are common culprits that can stay in your bloodstream for up to 72 hours after consumption and could cause unpleasant breath.

Read also: What Really Causes Bad Breath? 

7 Tips to Combat Bad Breath in the Summer

Now that we understand the causes, it’s time to take action and maintain fresh breath throughout the summer months!

Stay Hydrated

Hydration is key to combating bad breath in the summer. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can keep your mouth moist and promote saliva production. 

Aim for at least eight glasses of water daily, and carry a water bottle with you to stay hydrated on the go.

Choose Breath-Friendly Foods and Beverages

Opt for foods and beverages that freshen your breath, such as crisp fruits and vegetables like apples, lemons, celery, and carrots. 

Try to limit the consumption of foods that could potentially cause bad breath, like onion, garlic, alcohol, and sweets.

Maintain a Consistent Oral Hygiene Routine

In the hustle and bustle of summer activities, don’t compromise on your oral hygiene routine. 

Brush your teeth at least twice a day using fluoride toothpaste, focusing on all tooth surfaces and your tongue. 

Don’t forget to floss daily to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth, and brush or scrape your tongue with a toothbrush or a tongue scraper to remove odor-causing bacteria as well.

Use Mouthwash 

Mouthwash serves as a valuable weapon in the battle against bad breath. Choose an alcohol-free mouthwash that contains antibacterial ingredients to kill odor-causing bacteria. 

Chew Sugar-Free Gum

Keep some sugar-free gum handy. Chewing gum stimulates saliva production, which helps wash away bacteria and freshen your breath temporarily.

Visit Your Local Dentist for Regular Check-ups and Cleanings

Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are essential to prevent bad breath. Professional cleanings remove stubborn plaque and tartar buildup that can contribute to bad breath. 

Your local dentist can also identify and address any underlying dental and health issues that may be causing persistent bad breath.

Avoid Tobacco and Limit Alcohol

Tobacco products and excessive alcohol consumption not only harm your overall health but also contribute to bad breath. 

Avoiding the use of tobacco and limiting alcohol intake can significantly improve your breath and your overall health and well-being.

With these tips at your disposal, you can confidently keep your breath fresh all summer long. Taking these small preventive measures will ensure that you’re always speaking confidently and never turning away due to bad breath. 

And if you’re looking for a trusted dentist in Lafayette, LA, Maestri Family Dental is ready to offer the best services to help you smile confidently! Contact us today to learn more about our dental services or to book an appointment.

 

Source:

https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/bad-breath-what-causes-it-and-what-to-do-about-it-2019012115803