Did you know your mouth is home to hundreds of microbes, including bacteria, fungus, and more? Some bacteria can be helpful, others however can be associated with tooth decay and bad breath. Fortunately getting rid of bad bacteria is simple and it all comes down to a good oral health routine.
How to get rid of bad mouth bacteria
If you don’t keep bad bacteria under control it could lead to problems such as tooth decay, bad breath, and gingivitis.
Here's what you can do to prevent bad bacteria from getting out of control in your mouth:
Brush it away. Your teeth are covered with plaque. This plaque contains bacteria that will release acids following a meal or snack containing sugar. These acids weaken the enamel on your teeth which increases your risk of cavities. That's why it's so important to remove plaque from your teeth by brushing twice a day and flossing once a day. If you let plaque build up on your teeth, it can harden into tartar, which irritates your gums and can cause gum disease.
Wash it away. Alongside brushing and flossing, you can also use mouthwash. Mouthwashes can help reduce plaque and bacteria, help prevent tooth decay, and reduce the speed that tartar forms on the teeth. Ask your dentist or hygienist which mouthwash is best for you.
Keep it away. Large amounts of sugar in your diet can lead to problems with your oral health. One of the best ways to get rid of harmful bacteria in your mouth is to stick to a healthy and balanced diet. Keeping sugary foods and drinks to a minimum will help. You can also consume foods that have good bacteria such as probiotics like yogurt, kefir, and fermented foods.
If it's been a while since your last dental visit or you're worried about your oral health, book an appointment with your dentist or hygienist today to get your oral health on the right track.
Source: Colgate