Whip out the floss and tongue scraperyouve got work to do.

If this sounds like you, though, dont sweat it.

How Do You Know if You Have Bad Breath?

Woman Pulling Floss

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The remaining residue is what their breath smells like.

I also recommend asking a family member or friend for an honest assessment.

Wait, Are There Different Types of Bad Breath?

This is also in line with theAmerican Dental Associations (ADA) guidelines.

We tell our pediatric patients to sing their ABCs four times at a slow pace," Busch says.

“Thats a good barometer.

My general advice is to take your time, brush each area, and polish each tooth.

give a shot to mimic this gentle brushing motion on the inside of your teeth too.

You should be switching out your toothbrush, or brush head if its anelectric or battery-operated one, quarterly.

Typically, I recommend replacing a toothbrush or brush head every three months, says Becker.

Leftover food debris cancause bacteria buildup, and splayed bristles cant effectively scrub plaque off of your teeth.

Swish with alcohol-free mouthwash

Mouthwash is always beneficial to add to your oral hygiene routine, Kessler says.

Alcohol-free mouthwashes are best.

I always recommend the TheraBreath brand.

Just don’t slack off on brushing if you use a mouthwash, though.

Flossing helps remove food particles and bacteria that are stuck in between your teeth.

Curve the floss like a C to reach your gums without poking them too hard.”

Also, be gentle.

CocoFlossis my favorite, and patients tell me it makes them look forward to flossing."

She recommends buying one thats separate from the mini one attached to the back of your brush head.

It also can be helpful for older patients, too, says Busch.

Its a great tool for flushing out bacteria that can get caught between teeth and in the gumline.

you’re able to also fill the reservoir with mouthwash to get an even more effective cleaning.

The Bottom Line

Bad breath is not a unique occurrence.

It happens to people all around you more than you might imagine.

However, the severity of the smell may give you a better idea of whats going on.