The Real Power of Chewing Gum and Peppermints

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Let’s face it: bad breath is annoying and embarrassing. But if you think that all you need to combat that problem is chewing gum and peppermint, you might find yourself reevaluating your options.

It is true that chewing gum and popping mints in your mouth can freshen your breath for awhile. Gum can even activate your salivary glands, creating saliva which washes away bad bacteria in your mouth. But if the gum or mints have sugar in them, this can actually counteract the benefits by feeding the bacteria in your mouth – the same bacteria that may create bad breath later on.

If you have chronic bad breath, this may be a sign of a more serious issue. For example, a side effect of gum disease is halitosis. In addition to chewing sugar-free gum, try revamping your oral hygiene routine; make sure to brush twice a day and floss once a day. Buy some new dental tools for the novelty and excitement. You may want to invest in antiseptic mouthwash or a tongue scraper.

Most importantly, please call our office in Coral Gables, Florida at 305-443-4713 to schedule a visit with our dentist, Dr. Raymond del Castillo. Our team at the dental practice of Raymond del Castillo, DDS can help determine the source of your bad breath and identify the best treatment plan for you. Please don’t  hesitate to call us today to set up an appointment. We’re here to serve.