Everyone has a serious case of morning breath when they wake up. While eliminating it altogether isn’t entirely possible, you can reduce its intensity by making a few nighttime changes. Dr. Deborah Gennero, from your Houston, TX dentist office, offers her patients some tips for fresher breath in the morning.

These Tips May Help Reduce Morning Breath

  • Use non-alcoholic mouthwash. Many mouthwashes contain alcohol, which tends to cause a dry mouth. Oral bacteria thrive better in drier environments; therefore, to reduce morning breath, using an alcohol-based mouthwash isn’t the way to go. Instead, opt for a alcohol-free variety.
  • Rinse with baking soda. This makes your mouth more alkaline, which is helpful for killing off bacteria. To use this method, simply add a teaspoon of baking soda to a cup of water. Gargle with the solution, and go to bed without rinsing your mouth.
  • Breathe through your nose. Just like the mouthwash, breathing through your mouth cause the oral cavity to dry out. Plus, having an open mouth while you sleep allows dust and other allergens to enter the body.
    The main reason why people sleep with their mouths open is due to blockages in the nasal passages. Your     Houston, TX dentist office recommends using BreatheRight strips or clearing your nose with a NetiPot before going to bed.
  • Brush and floss. This tip is a no-brainer. Dentists always advise patients to brush and floss at least twice-a-day; however, brushing in the morning and at night is absolutely crucial. In the morning, your mouth is teeming with bacteria that accumulated throughout the night. If it’s left unattended, the bacteria has even more time to attack the soft tissues and your enamel, which leads to cavities. The same logic applies to the nighttime brushing.

Consult with Your Houston, TX Dental Office for Excellent Preventative Care

If you’re looking for exceptional preventative care for you and your family, visit Dr. Gennero. She can treat patients regardless of age or dental ailment. To schedule an appointment with our Houston, TX dentist office, call us at (281) 578-6200. Also, visit our website for services, patient forms, and to learn more about the team. We gladly welcome patients from Clear Lake, The Woodlands, Katy, Sugarland, and surrounding cities.