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Is bad breath keeping you from getting kissably close? New York City dentist Dr. Lee Gause of Smile Design Manhattan has offered up several tips on getting rid of the yucky breath.
Of course, flossing is essential, but Dr. Gause also recommends avoiding skipping meals. He says that eating helps get rid of bacteria on the tongue and stimulates the washing action of saliva.
However, Gause notes that constant snacking is bad for oral hygiene and breath. With frequent snacking, your saliva doesn’t have time in between meals to wash away food naturally.
And Gause says that mints make matters worse by increasing the amount of sugar in the mouth. That literally feeds the bacteria that causes bad breath! He recommends sugarless gum, but cautions against excessive chewing which may aggravate TMJ. Brushing or rinsing with mouthwash after eating is also helpful.
Gause suggests drinking water frequently to help saliva wash away bacteria. While regular dental cleanings are essential, Gause advises that persistent halitosis may call for a deep cleaning, which usually requires two to four visits and numbing.
What steps do you take to avoid bad breath?
(Image via stock.xchng)
