How to Eliminate Bad Breath

Nothing zaps the romance from a smooch quicker than bad breath. Here are some tips for keeping your breath nice and fresh.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Dental Floss
• Antiseptic Solution
• Oral Rinse
• Toothbrush And Toothpaste
• Spoon Or Tongue Scraper

1. Practice good oral hygiene to kill the bacteria that cause bad breath: Brush twice a day and floss once a day. Use an oral rinse. See the dentist twice a year. Breath mints, sprays, mouthwash and gum mask bad breath but don't resolve it.

2. Use a plastic spoon to scrape off white residue on your tongue-- this is often the culprit. Or buy a tongue scraper at a drugstore.

3. Brush after eating foods such as milk, cheese and fish. The breakdown of protein in the mouth contributes to bad breath.

4. Avoid dry mouth--it's an environment that promotes bad breath. Breathe through your nose, drink plenty of water and steer clear of alcohol.

5. Clean dentures in an antiseptic solution nightly.

6. See your dentist if the problem continues. Bad breath can be a sign of gum disease, faulty dental work or some other medical problem. Certain medications, the onset of menstruation, drinking coffee, smoking and fasting can also cause bad breath.

Tips & Warnings

• You may have bad breath even if you can't smell it. Ask someone you trust for an honest opinion.

• Beware pill remedies that promise to solve bad breath caused by gastrointestinal problems. This type of bad breath is quite rare.