If you wake up and your breath isn’t the freshest, you might not panic (that’s very normal). But what if the odor persists? What if it has progressed to the point where you feel self-conscious when you’re meeting new clients or catching up with old friends? If that’s the case, keep reading to learn six helpful tips for getting rid of bad breath.
Tip #1: Avoid Pungent Foods
Although delicious, foods like onions, garlic, pickles, and fish can linger on your breath, even after you’ve brushed your teeth. So, if you are struggling with bad breath, consider removing pungent foods like these from your diet. Instead, eat more bland foods, like bananas, oatmeal, and egg whites.
Tip #2: Brush and Floss Consistently
To put it simply, if you want minty-fresh breath, you need to take great care of your smile. That starts with brushing twice a day (for two full minutes each time) and extends to flossing each morning or night. You can even make a small dental care kit so you can freshen up when you’re away from home!
Tip #3: Rinse With Mouthwash for 30-60 Seconds
There are numerous benefits of rinsing with mouthwash consistently – from preventing plaque buildup to freshening your breath. That said, swishing it around in your mouth for 5 seconds won’t do it. You need to rinse for the full 30-60 seconds to kill bacteria.
Tip #4: Clean Your Tongue
Remember, your tongue takes up a lot of real estate in your mouth. If you don’t clean it, then a white, sticky film can develop on the surface, resulting in an unpleasant look and smell. The good news is that you don’t need anything expensive; a soft-bristled toothbrush or tongue scraper will do the trick!
Tip #5: Drink Plenty of Water
Patients are often surprised to hear this, but mouth dryness can lead to bad breath. So, do your best to sip on water throughout the day! Doing so will help you stay hydrated, prevent dry mouth, and help remove food particles and other debris from your teeth.
Tip #6: Keep Sugar-Free Mints With You
There’s nothing worse than heading into a work meeting or a night out with friends and feeling self-conscious about your breath. That’s why it’s best to keep sugar-free mints with you! That way, you can quickly pop one in your mouth, improving your breath and your confidence.
About the Doctor
Dr. Costa graduated cum laude from the Harvard University School of Dental Medicine. In the decades since, he has become a Master of the Academy of General Dentistry (MAGD), undergone advanced training at the world-renowned Spear Education Center, and been inducted as a Fellow of the American College of Dentists. Now, he uses everything he has learned throughout his 30+ years in dentistry to provide our patients in Worcester with the best care. If you are interested in scheduling an appointment with him, then visit our website or call (508) 755-1980.