Bad breath can be a buzzkill. As we prepare for the New Year and anticipate that big New Year’s Eve kiss, don’t let bad breath ruin your moment. We all fall victim to it every now and again, but there are a few simple tips you can follow to make sure your moment at midnight is everything you want it to be.
These tips won’t just help you prepare for that special smooch, but will help keep your mouth healthy year round!
Keep up with your oral health routine.
Bad breath stems from bacteria, so continuing with your oral health routine of brushing twice a day, flossing and rinsing will kill unwanted bacteria and keep your mouth fresh and clean. You might also try brushing with baking soda once a day to reduce acidity in the mouth and make it difficult for bacteria to grow.
Brush your tongue.
While brushing your teeth, use your toothbrush to brush your tongue as well. This will remove residue that may have built up between the taste buds and folds in the tongue.
Carry peppermint oil.
For last minute emergencies, keep peppermint oil in your purse. A few minutes before midnight, slip off to the powder room and mix a few drops with some water for a quick, refreshing rinse.
It’s important to note that mouthwashes and oils are generally cosmetic and will only mask the odor temporarily. If you need a more permanent solution, make an appointment to see your dentist.
Avoid smoking and tobacco products.
Tobacco products tend to dry out your mouth and can leave an unpleasant smell that lingers even after brushing your teeth. If you needed another reason to quit- saving your breath is a good one.
Wet your whistle.
With all of the champagne and alcohol being poured on New Years Eve, be sure to drink a sufficient amount of water. Among other reasons, drinking water helps keep odor under control by washing away food particles and curbing dry mouth.
Chew a piece of sugarless gum.
Another remedy for dry mouth is chewing on a piece of sugarless gum. The chewing will stimulate saliva flow that will wash away food debris and bacteria while the minty-fresh flavor provides a nice boost!
Eat the parsley from the appetizer tray.
Parsley, other than adding a green garnish to a fancy appetizer, contains chlorophyll, a known breath deodorizer. So pick up that sprig on the platter and chew it thoroughly.
Visit your dentist.
The best way to make sure that you are maintaining good oral hygiene is to visit your family dentist regularly. Regular checkups allow your dentist to detect any problems such as gum disease or dry mouth. Bad breath may also be the sign of a medical disorder. If your dentist determines that your mouth is healthy, you may be referred to your primary care physician.
For fresher breath year round, regular dental cleanings are a must. A lot of these tips will help temporarily, but only your dentist can determine whether chronic bad breath is the result of bad oral habits or something more serious. Call Dr. Cash today for same-day dental appointments and start your year off right!
Source: Delta Dental & Evora Oral Probiotics