This is a bit OT but it also helps not to have a mouth sore by doing proper mouth care.
6 Mouth Care Tips You Should Know By NowThere is nothing like bad breath to plummet your self-confidence. The worst thing is that you might not even know that you have it! The main cause for bad breath is the lack of oral hygiene, which is something that is often overlooked. Plus, there are many reasons why your oral hygiene can be less than perfect. Instead of constantly being worried that people might find your breath offensive, pick up on these tips that will guarantee your teeth (and mouth) are in good condition.
1. Eat smart!What goes into your mouth is also very important! Avoid sugary foods as these are likely to produce acids that can erode tooth enamel, causing decay. So no soft drinks, artificial fruit juices. In fact, carbonated drinks are the worst as carbonation increases acidity. Other foods to avoid: Too much citrusy fruits that can result in a high acid level in your mouth; coffee as it dries out your mouth, resulting in a thriving environment for bacteria; starchy food that tends to get trapped in your teeth; and excessive alcohol that reduces your saliva flow.
2. Use the right toothpasteWith so many out there, how do you know which one works the best? Here are a few things to look out for: Make sure to pick a toothpaste that contains fluoride as fluoride has been shown to prevent cavities. Look out for other ingredients that help fight germs that cause bad breath so that your mouth stays fresher for longer. Should you go for gel or paste? Spearmint or peppermint? This all comes down to a matter of preference. Best way to decide is to try a few until you find one that gives you the freshness you love.
3. Brush twice. Floss dailyIf you need a mantra for mouthcare, this is it: Brush your teeth twice and floss every day. Or if you are a real stickler for cleanliness, then brush your teeth and floss after every meal to prevent plaque and bacteria build-up. The other important mantra to remember? Change your toothbrush three to four times a year to prevent bacteria from growing in between the bristle. Here’s another tip: If you want to prevent bacteria from accumulating on your toothbrush, store in bristle down in a cup of mouthwash. Just remember to replace the mouthwash every other day.
4. Keep a pack of gum with youThis will come in handy if you are always out and about – chewing sugar-free gum after a meal will increase saliva flow, which washes bacteria away so you can keep bad breath at bay. While you are at it, rinse your mouth after each meal to dislodge any remaining food that may be stuck in between your teeth.
5. Use mouthwash dailyAnother important dental routine to do on a daily basis: Rinse with mouthwash. This helps to prevent plaque build-up as well as stops cavities from forming not to mention leaves you with minty fresh breath. According to the American Dental Association, it is best to use mouthwash before or after brushing. Don’t dilute it or it will be ineffective. And don’t rinse your mouth with water after either. Swish it through your teeth for 30 seconds to a minute before spitting out. You may need to wait 30 minutes before drinking water or eating to increase the effectiveness of your mouthwash. Best to read the instructions on the bottle to learn more.
6. Clean your tongueYes, it makes a difference too! Notice how when your breath isn’t as fresh there seems to be a whitish coat on your tongue? That’s actually an accumulation of bacteria, which causes the foul smell. It can go all the way to the back of your tongue, which is why using a tongue scraper instead of just your toothbrush will be the most effective way to remove this scum. Do this before brushing your teeth for even more protection.
