Improving Bad Breath - Some Quick Tips:

• Gargle with water.

• Brush your teeth, tongue, roof of your mouth, and gums at least twice a day with toothpaste.

• Floss your teeth once each day.

• Eat a low-fat diet rich in fruits and vegetables.

• Eat less meat.

• Do not smoke or use other tobacco products, such as snuff or chewing (spit) tobacco.

• Avoid foods and drinks that cause bad breath, such as garlic and alcohol.

• Eat at regular intervals. Dieting or missing meals can decrease saliva and cause bad breath.

• Chew sugar-free gum, suck on sugar-free mints, or drink water, especially if your mouth is dry.

• Try using breath sticks, which contain the ingredients found in a mouthwash and dissolve in your mouth.

• Remove dentures, removable bridges, partial plates, or orthodontic appliances and clean them once each day or as directed by your dentist. Pieces of food and germs can collect on these appliances and cause bad breath.

• Use a mouthwash for temporary relief of bad breath. Swish it around in your mouth for 30 seconds before spitting it out.

• Have regular dental checkups.