Ways to avoid bad breath.
Picture this: you’re on a blind date with an otherwise handsome and suave guy. You’re enjoying lively banter and his quick wit. But one thing stops you dead in your tracks: his seriously offensive halitosis. It’s a deal-breaker.
According to experts, as many as one in two people have bad breath. But those same experts say it doesn’t have to be a curse as long as you practice good dental hygiene.
Root causes of halitosis can be diet-related, disease-related, and just plain bad habits, like inadequate brushing, flossing, and infrequent cleanings. From there, just follow any number of roads that lead to oral disasters like tooth decay and gum disease, both of which can turn your mouth into a bonafide petri dish.
To fight halitosis and keep your mouth smelling clean and fresh, dental experts at both the Mayo Clinic and the Cleveland Clinic suggest ramping up your oral hygiene habits by establishing a smart routine and being diligent about following it.
So that you’re not the deal-breaker on your next date, read their tips for success:
Avoid dry mouth by drinking plenty of water, chewing sugar-free gum, or sucking on candy.
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Avoid the moisture-hogs: tobacco products, sodas, and coffee.
Brush at least twice a day, and use a soft-bristled toothbrush.
Introduce tongue-scraping into your routine after every brushing and flossing, and use a stainless steel, plastic, or copper tongue-scraper.
Use an alcohol-free, antibacterial mouthwash and floss at least once a day.
Spice up your foods by eating fresh or dried parsley leaves, an herb known to combat bad breath. And use ginger when you can in food preparation, which has been proven to be an effective natural remedy. It contains 6-gingerol, a component that breaks down certain odor-causing compounds in the foods you eat.
Schedule regular dental cleanings, once or twice yearly.
This article originally appeared in the June 2024 issue.
