How to Check for Bad Breath in a Pinch

Feb 18th, 2014
Easton Dentists Mar 1st, 2017

Everyone fears having bad breath in that important interview or on a date with someone special. A quick way to self-check for bad breath is by licking your wrist, waiting 10 seconds then smelling the spot you licked.

The most prevalent causes of bad breath are odor-omitting bacteria living on the back of the tongue, below the gumline, and in the pockets created by gum disease between teeth and the gums. The bacteria that grow on your tongue produce malodorous compounds and fatty acids that produce a foul smell. Gum disease can also produce an oppressive odor.

There are several options to prevent bad breath. Cleaning your tongue at least twice a day will help prevent odor-causing bacteria from building up. Flossing is also essential in keeping breath smelling great. Flossing removes trapped food particles from between your teeth that cause odor. A dry mouth is more likely to omit an odor; chewing sugar-free gum will help to keep your mouth moist. It may seem obvious, but brushing your teeth at lease twice a day will help keep your mouth clean and fresh.

Having a healthy mouth is of the utmost importance and the key to keeping breath smelling great. Regular cleanings and appointments with your dentist will keep your mouth in good health! The dental experts at The Dental Center can help you achieve optimal dental health.

3 Tips for Fresh Breath

Feb 11th, 2014
Easton Dentists Mar 1st, 2017

In both business and your personal life there is only one chance to make a first impression. Bad breath doesn’t have to be a part of someone’s first perception of you. Try the following 3 tips to always be confident that your breath is smelling great!

1. Brush your teeth at least twice a day, floss, and scrape your tongue. Bad breath is caused by a dirty mouth, as bacteria develops from food particles trapped in your teeth. Keeping your mouth clean is vital to having good breath.
2. Drink plenty of water. Dryness is a cause of bad breath, and drinking water will help keep your mouth moist. Water also aids in keeping your mouth clean by flushing odor-causing debris out from between your teeth.
3. Chewing xylitol gum inhibits odor caused by bacteria. Bacteria thrives on sugar and breaks down into acids; these acids can make your breath smell unappealing. Xylitol is a sugar alternative that can’t be broken down by bacteria, which means that your breath will only have the scent of your gum.

Having fresh breath ultimately comes from practicing good oral hygiene. Call the experts at The Dental Center today to schedule an appointment!

A Brief Explanation of Inflammation and How It Affects Your Health

Feb 5th, 2014
Easton Dentists Mar 1st, 2017

When most people hear the word “inflammation” they think of joint inflammation. However, one of the most problematic places to have inflammation is in the mouth. Dan Sindelar, D.M.D., explains in his blog Oral Health: The Tipping Point of Healthcare that “inflammation is the body’s response to bacteria, virus, and injury.” Chronic inflammation associated with oral bacteria poses serious risks to your overall health.

Sindelar compares dental inflammation to having a fire in the kitchen of a house (where most residential fires start). Think of inflammation like fire. The flames from a kitchen fire can easily spread throughout the home, burning it to the ground. Your mouth is like a kitchen. If it is exposed to a constant source of inflammation (fire), both the cause of inflammation and your body’s response itself to the inflammation spread throughout your system. When bacteria are spread throughout your body it can cause heart disease, arthritis, pancreatic disease, cancer, and diabetes.

Having good health means having good dental health, and the only way to have good dental health is to keep up good dental hygiene and see your dentist regularly. The Dental Center is currently accepting new patients. Call today to book your appointment and be on your way to better overall health!