Bad breath is caused by bacteria that form when food particles are left behind in or between your teeth. In order to permanently eliminate bad breath, the bacteria must be eliminated. Mouthwashes and breath mints only get rid of bad breath temporarily. While it is important to remember that, there is also no harm in using quick breath fresheners to destroy odors caused by eating certain foods.
Crunchy foods
Crunchy fruits or vegetables can help to remove food particles that are stuck to your teeth. If you’re still looking for something to munch on after eating, an apple or some celery sticks could help to neutralize your breath.
Dairy products
Dairy products can neutralize acids that cause bad breath. A piece of cheese or some unsweetened yogurt at the end of a meal can improve your breath, and give you calcium that’s good for your oral health. Eating yogurt regularly may even help improve your breath on a regular basis.
Sugarless gum
Sugarless gum is not only better for your teeth than gum that contains sugar, it actually may be better for your teeth than not chewing gum at all. That’s because the chewing action stimulates saliva production, and saliva washes away acids in your mouth. This can improve your breath and reduce bacteria. Mint-flavored gum may be the top choice for masking bad breath, but cinnamon gum may actually do a better job of conquering bad breath, due to a chemical in cinnamon flavoring that can actually reduce bacteria.
Tea
Strange as it may sound, black tea can actually reduce bad breath. Compounds in black tea can inhibit the growth of mouth bacteria that cause bad breath. Tea can also leave an odor on your breath, so limit your intake and opt for decaffeinated tea for less negative breath affects.
Water
Simply drinking water after a meal can wash away food particles and acids. This is good for your oral health, and your breath.
Some other foods that may quickly freshen your breath are lemon, cranberries, pineapple and parsley. Remember that good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups are the best way to keep your mouth healthy and your breath fresh.
