Bad breath is like mosquitos and poison ivy – nobody wants to deal with it. Think about how it can be there to “greet” you when you wake up, if given the opportunity it’s ready to mess up your date or a job interview. Simply put, it’s the worst.
Some people struggle with halitosis, aka bad breath, more than others. Your first line of defense should definitely be a consistent oral health regimen, but it may come as a surprise that yogurt could be the factor to help you win this battle!
Read on to learn from your dentist in Harrisonburg about common causes of bad breath, how yogurt can help, and other preventive measures you can take to ward off this unwelcome guest.
What Are Common Causes of Bad Breath?
- Dry mouth: Your salivary glands play a crucial role in removing food particles and neutralizing acids in your mouth. Therefore, patients with dry mouth are susceptible to dental issues, like gum disease and halitosis.
- Eating pungent foods: Garlic, onions, and certain spices can linger on your breath, even after completing your oral hygiene routine.
- Poor oral hygiene: Neglecting to brush and floss allows the bacteria in your mouth to accumulate on your teeth and gums and release hydrogen sulfide, which results in an unpleasant odor.
How Can Yogurt Help Defeat Bad Breath?
According to a recent study presented at a meeting of the International Association for Dental Research, yogurt can effectively fend off offensive odors! In fact, participants who ate six ounces of yogurt daily had reduced levels of hydrogen sulfide (an odor-causing compound) in their mouths. Plus, the levels of plaque and gum disease were lower as well. So, it’s safe to say that eating yogurt is crucial for patients suffering from chronic bad breath.
What Are Other Ways You Can Address Bad Breath?
In addition to increasing your yogurt consumption, consider adding these steps to your daily routine:
- Eat a nutrient-dense diet.
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Avoid garlic, onions, and pungent spices.
- Use mouthwash regularly.
- Floss daily.
- Brush your teeth twice a day.
- Visit your dentist twice a year for routine exams and professional cleanings.
If you are frequently waking up with bad breath and feeling frustrated about the unpleasant odor in your mouth, definitely try incorporating yogurt into your diet and adopting these other measures. If it persists, be sure to visit your dentist so they can address the root of the problem.
About the Practice
At Harrisonburg Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, our three-dentist team is ready to help you achieve the smile of your dreams. Dr. Mario DeNicola earned his dental doctorate at the State University of New York at Buffalo. During a residency in Roanoke, he learned a great deal about oral surgery, as well as the vital connection between oral and systemic health. Dr. Monisha Khanna also earned her dental doctorate at the State University of New York at Buffalo before heading into a residency in Roanoke, where she gained extensive experience helping patients undergoing radiation treatment, joint replacement, and other systemic conditions. She learned about a wide array of health backgrounds, as well as how to help young patients. Dr. Douglas Wright pursued his dental doctorate from the University of Maryland. He trained in several places in the years to follow, including the U.S. Navy. Dr. Wright received advanced training in areas like periodontics, endodontics, oral surgery, and anesthesia. As you read in this blog post, part of your game plan to defeat bad breath should be biannual dental cleanings and exams. To make an appointment, you can visit their website or call (540) 432-6616.