Bacteria are associated with many different oral health problems, such as tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath. Many of the problems from the microbes are due to the acid that they release as they digest their food. Nevertheless, there are ways to limit the number of microbes in your mouth. Here are a few of them:

Rinse Your Mouth Frequently With Water

As you rinse your mouth with water, the mechanical action of the rinsing helps wash away oral bacteria. In addition, the water helps hydrate your mouth. 

Oral bacteria thrive in an environment where they remain undisturbed. Thus, it is important for your mouth to be continually bathed in saliva. However, if there is too little saliva available, this rinsing action is limited. Water helps provide the moisture necessary for saliva production. In addition, if the water contains fluoride, it further discourages bacterial growth in the mouth. 

Choose Oral Hygiene Products With Chlorhexidine

Some toothpaste and mouthwash varieties include chlorhexidine. The substance is not drying to the mouth, but it does kill oral bacteria.  

There are other antibacterial alternatives, such as alcohol. However, alcohol can cause dry mouth.

Chlorhexidine-containing products are generally used in the same manner as other items of the same type. There is no need to brush your teeth or rinse differently. You can simply enjoy the germ-killing properties of the chlorhexidine as you care for your teeth and gums in the usual manner.

Limit Starchy and Sugary Foods

Like other organisms, bacteria require food for growth. Oral bacteria that cause decay and gum inflammation feed on simple carbohydrates. As a result, when you consume a large number of sugary or starchy foods, you encourage the growth of the bacterial population in your mouth.

This can cause significant damage to your teeth and gums. The microbes release acid as a digestive byproduct, and the acid causes tooth decay and tissue inflammation. 

Eat More Cinnamon

Cinnamon contains natural compounds called cinnamaldehydes. These substances are naturally antibacterial. 

You can enjoy the advantages of cinnamon by chewing cinnamon-flavored gum. In addition, you can add cinnamon as a flavoring to your drinks, such as tea or coffee.

Sweeten with Xylitol

Xylitol is a natural sweetener that is also antimicrobial. The substance is found in some sugarless foods, but it can also be purchased separately as a stand-alone sweetener.

To learn more ways to limit the number of bacteria in your mouth, schedule an appointment with a dentist office in your local area.