The festive season is synonymous with joy, sharing and... closeness! To make the most of these precious moments without worrying about your breath, impeccable oral hygiene is essential. In this article, you'll find expert advice and practical tips for keeping your breath fresh throughout the festivities.
Why can you have bad breath over the holidays?
Several factors can contribute to bad breath (halitosis) during the holidays:
The role of food
Garlic, onions, spices, alcohol and protein-rich foods can leave behind volatile sulfur compounds responsible for halitosis.
Dry mouth
Alcohol, stress and certain medications can reduce saliva production, which plays an essential role in eliminating bacteria and food particles.
Inadequate oral hygiene
Neglected brushing and flossing encourage the build-up of plaque and bacteria, the source of halitosis.
Smoking
Visit tobacco dries out the mouth, stains teeth and leaves a persistent odor.
Tips for keeping your breath fresh over the holidays:
Brush and floss your teeth
Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes with a fluoride toothpaste, and floss daily to remove food particles and plaque from between your teeth.
Brushing the tongue
Use a tongue scraper to remove bacteria and debris that accumulate on the surface of the tongue.
Stay hydrated
Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stimulate saliva production and maintain good oral hydration.
Choose sugar-free chewing gum
Chew a sugar-free chewing gum after meals can help stimulate saliva production and freshen breath.
Eating a balanced diet
Limit your intake of odorous foods such as garlic and onions, and focus on fiber-rich fruits and vegetables.
Avoid tobacco and alcohol
Tobacco and alcohol dry out the mouth and contribute to halitosis.
Regular dental check-ups
Regular visits to the dentist help detect and treat oral problems that can cause bad breath, such as cavities, gum disease and infections.
Using mouthwash: good or bad idea?
Mouthwash can help with halitosis, but it's important to choose it carefully and use it correctly.
Advantages :
- Immediate cooling: temporarily masks unpleasant odours thanks to its minty fragrance.
- Bacteria removal : some products contain antibacterial agents to help reduce the amount of bacteria in the mouth.
- Complementary action: A mouthwash can complement brushing and flossing by reaching hard-to-reach areas.
Disadvantages and warnings :
- Temporary effect: it does not treat the underlying cause of bad breath. If bad breath persists, it's important to consult a dentist.
- Dry mouth : Some mouthwashes contain alcohol, which can dry out the mouth and aggravate bad breath over the long term. Choose alcohol-free products.
- Hiding problems : regular use of mouthwash can mask the symptoms of underlying oral disease. It's important not to neglect regular visits to the dentist.
- Tooth discoloration : certain products can staining teeth. Ask your dentist about a suitable mouthwash.
This product can be a useful complement to good oral hygiene, but should not replace brushing, flossing and regular visits to the dentist.
Persistent bad breath calls for a consultation with a specialist. dentist to identify the cause and obtain appropriate treatment. He will be able to advise you on the choice and use of a mouthwash adapted to your situation.
Tips: which foods are best for fresh breath?
To promote fresh-smelling breath, opt for certain foods :
- Fibre-rich fruit and vegetables: apples, carrots, celery... Their abrasive action cleans teeth and stimulates saliva production.
- Plain yogurt : rich in probiotics, it helps fight the bacteria responsible for halitosis.
- Fruits rich in vitamin C : Citrus fruits, kiwi fruit, strawberries... Vitamin C strengthens gums and helps prevent periodontal disease.
- Aromatic herbs and spices : cloves, parsley, mint, basil... They contain compounds that neutralize unpleasant odors.
- Green tea : rich in polyphenols, it helps reduce the production of volatile sulfur compounds.
As a complement, good hydration is essential. Drinking plenty of water helps eliminate the food debris and bacteria responsible for halitosis.
Helvident services for good breath
Helvident clinics offer a full range of services to help you maintain optimal oral health:
- Descaling and polishing : to remove tartar and plaque responsible for halitosis.
- Treatment of gum disease: Gingivitis and periodontitis can cause persistent unpleasant odours. Helvident offers suitable treatments for these conditions.
- Personalized oral hygiene advice: Our dental hygienists will give you personalized advice to optimize your oral care routine.
- A complete check-up of your oral health: to identify the cause of halitosis and propose appropriate solutions.
The last word
Fresh breath is a valuable asset during the festive season. By following these simple tips and seeing your dentist at Helvident regularly, you can enjoy the festivities without worrying about the smell in your mouth. Don't hesitate to contact our dental clinics in Fribourg, Lausanne or Aigle to make an appointment and benefit from our services for optimal oral health.
