After a lovely dinner full of engaging conversation and lots of laughter, you are dropping your date off at their home and you lean in for a kiss – however, instead of meeting you halfway, your date recoils! Could it be because of bad breath? According to the American Dental Association, nearly 1 in 4 people have bad breath. Whether it was the garlic-heavy meal you ate or because you are experiencing dry mouth, a smelly breath can produce awkward encounters and be a source of major embarrassment. If you want a better shot at ending your next date on a high note, be sure to read the following 3 tips from a dentist on how to beat bad breath.
Use Proper Brushing Techniques
Halitosis, commonly known as bad breath, can be caused by poor dental habits that allow tiny bits of food to remain stuck in your teeth and promote the growth of odor-causing bacteria.
To prevent bad breath, the American Dental Association recommends brushing twice a day with a soft-bristled brush for a full two minutes each time. When brushing, place your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gums and use short, circular strokes. Be sure to brush the outer, inner and chewing surfaces of your teeth, and don’t forget to brush your tongue as well!
Avoid Smelly Foods
Certain foods are naturally smelly and can contribute to bad breath long after you have finished eating them. Foods that can linger on your breath include:
- Garlic
- Onions
- Vinegar
- Tuna
- Certain cheese
Consume these foods or meals that contain them sparingly and brush your teeth immediately afterward when you do indulge to avoid bad breath.
Keep Your Mouth Moist
Saliva naturally cleans the mouth and keeps it moist. When your mouth does not produce enough saliva, bad breath can develop due to bacteria build up. Dry mouth can be caused by:
- 400 common medications which list dry mouth as a side effect
- Salivary gland health problems
- Breathing through your mouth instead of your nose, especially at night
To keep your mouth moist and reduce bad breath, chew on sugar-free gum or suck on hard candies to encourage saliva production. If these methods do not work, you can also discuss with your dentist whether prescription artificial saliva is a viable option for you.
Chronic bad breath can lead to awkward situations on dates, in the workplace
or just in everyday interactions with friends and loved ones. Be sure to follow the above tips to maintain a fresh breath and avoid embarrassment!
About the Author
For over 30 years, families in Indianapolis have turned to Dr. Mark M. Farthing to fulfill all of their dental care needs. A proud graduate of Indiana University School of Dentistry, Dr. Farthing has continued his education at the prestigious Dawson Academy to ensure he stays up to date with the latest in dental care knowledge and techniques. Patients new and old can contact Dr. Farthing by visiting the Indianapolis Family Dentistry website or calling the office at 317-898-3384.