No one wants to be told they have bad breath, but unfortunately it happens to everyone. While many people use breath mints or chew gum to freshen their breath, those are short-term solutions, and may not be the healthiest options. Fortunately, there are many ways to freshen breath naturally, and keep it fresh! Here are some tips on how to freshen your breath, and have it stay fresh.
- Address Your DietWhen fatty foods break down in your stomach, they leave behind a fat byproduct called ketones. This odour can come back up your throat and sit on your tongue. A diet rich in vegetables, along with healthy fats and proteins, can balance this out, and prevent bad breath due to fatty foods. Alkaline foods, like vegetables, also cancel out the acidity that causes bad breath. It’s never a bad idea to add more veggies to your diet!
- Drink WaterSugary drinks are terrible for your teeth, your breath, and your overall health. Be sure to drink water to keep yourself hydrated, freshen your breath, and keep your teeth healthy. It’s a good idea to enjoy any acidic drinks like juice, pop, coffee, and alcohol in moderation, and rinse your mouth out with water after consuming.
- Brush and FlossBrushing at least twice daily and flossing daily should be the foundation of any good oral health routine. Brushing and flossing will help get rid of any odour causing bacteria, and keep your mouth healthy overall.
- Clean Your TongueBacteria can get stuck on the surface of your tongue and cause odours. You can buy a tongue scraper, or simply use your toothbrush to clean your tongue every time you brush your teeth.
- Fresh HerbsChewing on fresh mint or parsley is a great, all natural alternative to chewing gum. Parsley contains chlorophyll, which helps break down sulfur compounds in the mouth. Mint freshens your breath naturally. Both of them are also great for adding extra greens into your diet.
- No SmokingThis one could go without saying! Not only are cigarettes not good for your overall health, they cause bad breath. Just another reason to quit this harmful habit!
Chronic bad breath could be a sign of something more serious. If you’re concerned about your breath and oral health, the best thing to do is to consult your dentist. They can see if there are any other causes of the bad breath, as well as recommend what you should do in your specific case.