Tips for maintaining fresh breath throughout the day

Fresh breath is not only important for personal confidence but also for social interactions. No to mention positive impressions and general, overall oral health.

However, maintaining it consistently throughout the day can be challenging, especially with busy schedules and varying dietary habits. Bad breath, also known as halitosis, can be caused by various factors. Including food choices and oral hygiene, but also underlying health issues. Luckily, there are effective expert strategies you can implement to keep your breath fresh.

The Basics: Flush and Floss Regularly

Of course, the cornerstone of fresh breath is good oral hygiene. Brush your teeth at least twice a day, preferably after meals, using fluoride toothpaste. Pay special attention to your tongue, as bacteria can accumulate on its surface and have a great contribution to bad breath. Don’t forget don’t rinse the toothpaste immediately after brushing – keep it in, so the fluoride can do its work! Flossing is equally important, as it helps remove food particles and plaque from between your teeth, where your toothbrush can’t reach. Electric water flossers are a fantastic choice, not only being an environmentally friendly alternative to classic floss but also making an additional effort to flush out all remains. Mouth wash, too, can help kill bacteria and refreshen your mouth. If you have a dry mouth, how3ever, it’s important to use alcohol-free mouthwash, to prevent the exacerbation of further dryness.

Stay Hydrated and Watch Your Diet

A lot of our bodily health is connected to the same conditions – and the most important one is more often than not proper hydration, as well as clean eating. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps keep your mouth moist and washes away particles and bacteria, before they can settle. A dry mouth can contribute to bad breath, so aim to drink water regularly, especially after meals or consuming beverages that can leave residues, like coffee or alcohol.

Certain foods can also help combat bad breath. For example, crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples and carrots can help clean your teeth and stimulate saliva production, which naturally fights bad breath. On the other hand, avoid strong-smelling foods like garlic and onions, which can linger in your mouth long after consumption. If you do, however, chewing sugar-free gum or sucking on sugar-free mints can help stimulate saliva flow, too, countering them. See if you can find some with the sweetener xylitol, which has been shown to inhibit the growth of bacteria in the mouth. And, of course, we really don’t have to mention it, but: quit smoking, if you do.

Have regular Dental Check-Ups and Manage Underlying Conditions

Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and check-ups – ideally twice a year. They an identify and treat any oral health issues that may be contributing to bad breath, such as gum disease or cavities, or even prevent them before they pop up in the first place. Certain health conditions like sinus infections, acid reflux, and diabetes can contribute, too. If you suspect an underlying health issue is causing or worsening your bad breath, consult your GP for proper diagnosis and treatment.