Everyone can agree that having bad breath is embarrassing. Having a condition that gives you perpetually bad breath is even worse. But having halitosis doesn't need to mean an end to your social life. Here's how you can deal with your halitosis on the go to avoid embarrassment in social situations.
Carry mini oral hygiene products
Halitosis is first and foremost best taken care of through frequent thorough cleanings, including a full routine of flossing, brushing, and using mouthwash. If the smell of your breath gets consistently worse throughout the day, you may want to keep a mini tooth cleaning kit on you. Put together a small bag of floss picks and a travel-sized toothbrush, toothpaste, and mouthwash. Clean your mouth every few hours as a routine, or sooner if you've recently eaten.
Chew mint flavored gum
Gum is not the first or best solution for masking bad breath, but it is a quick one. A piece of mint gum helps your breath smell fresher temporarily, which is good for short social encounters. Aside from the minty-fresh flavor, gum helps reduce bad breath by increasing saliva production, which naturally washes away bacteria and odors on the teeth and tongue.
Eat neutral, mild foods while out
Certain traditionally "stinky" foods and drinks are likely to exacerbate your halitosis, such as coffee, garlic, and onions. Prevent these from affecting your breath by not eating and drinking these offenders when you're out to lunch or eating at work. If you do, be sure to freshen up your mouth promptly with one of the aforementioned solutions.
Drink plenty of water
Bring a water bottle with you when you run errands and go to work. Just like when chewing gum, drinking water increases the amount of your saliva, making your mouth moist. It also helps get rid of any food stuck in your teeth. These are all key factors to avoiding bad breath.
Halitosis doesn't have to be a social death sentence. Bad breath is manageable with frequent proper oral care and good eating and drinking habits. Take care of your breath and it will take care of you.
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