Most people worry about their breath occasionally, but it can be hard to judge whether your breath is bad. If you're worried that you have bad breath, ask a friend or family member you feel comfortable with to let you know whether your breath could use a refresher. In general, it's fairly simple to get rid of bad breath at home, though you may want to consult a doctor if bad breath for no apparent reason is an ongoing problem for you.
Step 1
Brush your teeth every time you eat. Brush for at least two to three minutes, and check with your dentist to make sure that you are using the proper brushing technique to clean your teeth. Brush your tongue, too, using a soft-bristled brush as far back on your tongue as you can to ensure that you clean the area where odor-causing bacteria is most likely to accumulate.
Step 2
Floss your teeth every day to remove food particles between your teeth. Decaying food particles can cause bad breath.
Step 3
Drink plenty of water to keep your mouth hydrated: Dry mouth can cause mouth odor. For the same reason, limit your intake of caffeinated beverages like coffee that can dry out your mouth.
Step 4
Chew gum or suck candy to stimulate your mouth to produce more saliva. Saliva helps clean and refresh your mouth, removing odor-causing bacteria. Choose sugar-free gum and candy for the best results.
Step 5
Replace your toothbrush every three to four months. A new toothbrush is most effective for removing plaque and food particles, and for eliminating bad breath. Choose a soft-bristled brush.
Step 6
Chew parsley or mint leaves to quickly freshen your breath. Parsley and mint are both effective for short-term elimination of bad breath.
Step 7
Don't smoke. Smoking dries out your mouth and contributes to bad breath.
Tips and Warnings
- Keep in mind that mouthwash may temporarily mask bad breath, but it doesn't correct the problem that's causing bad breath. If your bad breath persists, see a dentist to make sure an underlying dental health issue isn't causing your breath problem. If your dentist approves your dental health, see a doctor.
