Probably everyone you know has a good story about bad breath. It’s a very distinctive character feature that is hard to forget.
Every day, people spend lots of money and time on personal hygiene; from showering, to makeup. And for the mouth, the story is no different. Walk into any pharmacy and you’ll see rows and rows of “mouth products.” Yet, bad breath persists. Why?
Bacteria. Gross. In your mouth. Oh yes, I said it. Really, it makes sense. We eat stuff, and it is digested. Everyone knows about bacteria in the stomach; and since the mouth is a continuation of the digestive process, it stands to reason there is bacteria in the mouth.
So why do some people have bad breath, while other’s have beautiful breath (or at least breath that doesn’t stink)?
Oral hygiene is a major factor. Whether or not you have lots or less bacteria, things are always better if you practice good home care. This includes cleaning your teeth at least once a day. Also, flossing. Yes, flossing is crucial. In fact, if you don’t floss, even if you are a perfect brusher, you only clean 60% of your teeth. So without flossing, you’re getting a D as a oral hygiene grade.
Next month we’ll go into more detail surrounding bad breath. For example, why do people have bad breath, even if they have good home care (and floss)? Stay tuned!