Men and women both suffer from the embarrassment of bad breath. In women, bad breath can strike worst during the premenstrual period due to increased proteins in the saliva. In about 90% of the cases, bad breath can be treated. Here’s 13 ways to prevent bad breath and get your saliva flowing for an odorless orifice.
1. Brush and rinse twice a day. Clean your mouth. Brush and rinse with clean water, especially after eating protein-containing foods like dairy, fish, meat, garlic and onion. Ditch the old toothbrush after three months and replace with new.
2. Herbs. Two handy natural odor eliminating remedies can be found in the kitchen. Parsley contains chlorophyll and may reduce unkind breath. Or simply chew on a few fennel seeds to lessen unpleasant scent.
3. Limit coffee and alcohol intake. Drink in moderation since both create stinky breath.
4. Hydrate. Drink plenty of water to promote moisture and help wash away bacteria. Saliva helps keep the mouth clean.
5. Drink tea. Polyphenol compounds in tea may help slow the development of bacteria in the mouth.
6. Floss everyday. Bacteria like to hang out in the gums. High protein foods remain wedged between the teeth and can create halitosis. Frequent flossing can remove debris and plaque.
7. Gargle with mouthwash before bed. Avoid alcohol-based mouthwash as this may only contribute to the problem. Some experts recommend gargling mouthwashes that contain the ingredients “chlorine dioxide” to reduce foul breath.
8. Nix dry mouth. Dry mouth is another potential cause of bad breath. Chew a piece of sugarless gum to get more saliva flow in the mouth.
9. Say “No” to Smoking. Smoking dries the mouth and produces rank breath that others notice.
10. Clean your tongue. Use a plastic tongue cleaner or a soft tooth brush to remove bacteria. Brush particularly well at the center of your tongue where bacteria and dead cells thrive.
11. Natural toothpaste. It is believed that toothpaste containing tea tree oil, which is known as a disinfectant, may lessen bad breath.
12. Diet right. Just say NO to fasting! Fasting causes bad breath. Eat a wholesome breakfast. Avoid or eat less pungent foods.
13. See the Dentist. Schedule regular examines. In severe cases, health conditions, disease and bad habits may be culprits leading to halitosis. If you experience bad breath often, discuss the matter with your dentist (or doctor) to get to the root of the problem.