How to Keep your Breath Fresh All Day
Kissing people, hugging them and generally getting close to them and just talking are all hard to do if your breath smells -- for both you and the other parties involved. Sometimes, your breath may still smell even if you brush twice a day. Use these tips to keep your breath fresh all day.
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Instructions
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Brush twice a day. Use a soft- or medium-bristle brush; they are gentler to the surface of your teeth. Select a toothpaste with fluoride and an antibacterial agent such as triclosan. Choose a refreshing fragrance like mint -- rather than, say, a kid's bubble gum flavored toothpaste -- to maximize pleasing breath.
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Brush your tongue while brushing your teeth. It may tickle at first, but quickly becomes second nature. Use a tongue scraper at least once a week -- daily if bad breath is a problem.
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Gargle with a mouthwash for approximately 60 seconds to kill any other bacteria in your mouth.
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Frequently drink water during the day. The water will help wash out the bacteria and food particles in your mouth. Swish water around in your mouth after every meal.
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Chew sugar-free gum during the day. Not only does the mint deodorize your mouth, but the gum itself also helps remove food particles. Choose sugar-free gum; sugar provides food for bacteria that can harm your teeth.
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Tips & Warnings
Avoid foods with garlic or onion flavors. If you do eat them, consume parsley afterward; raw parsley freshens breath.
Chew a few fennel seeds after a meal. This natural breath freshener is traditional in India.
References
- Photo Credit Ryan McVay/Valueline/Getty Images
