Let’s face it, it’s a rare person who doesn’t often wonder, “Do I have bad breath?” Folks who worry about bad breath - mostly adults, teenagers and college students, do a few things to check out or handle, potential bad breath. Some normal, some, well – you decide.

You’ve probably asked someone you’re close to, “Will you smell my breath and tell me if it’s bad?” Or you wake up in the morning with an awful taste in your mouth, creep out of bed, and sneak into the bathroom to brush your teeth before your spouse or partner wakes up. Or you lean over to kiss your child and they’re a real comedian, scrunching up their face and waving their hand in front of their nose, saying, “Ew!” And how about teenagers who lick the back of their hand, and then take a whiff? Now that’s scientific.

It all comes down to one, basic, universal concern. Do I have bad breath?

There are many reasons that can cause bad breath: food such as garlic and onions, tobacco products, poor dental hygiene, a sinus infection, periodontal or gum disease, oral surgery, tooth decay, missing teeth, dry mouth, medications, chronic inflammation of the nose, postnasal drip, sleep apnea, metabolic disorders, reflux, unclean dentures, residue on the tongue, trapped food particles, spices and more. Geez! It’s a wonder that just about everyone isn’t wandering with stinky breath!

What are my recommendations towards having sweeter breath? Start with regular dental checkups and cleanings every six months, brush teeth twice daily, make sure to floss, and use a tongue scrapper.

In addition to my tips, The Mayo Clinic and WebMD share some GOOD BREATH TIPS (as well as encourage some common sense) that can help eliminate, decrease or control bad breath.

• Brush your teeth twice daily, floss, and brush your tongue or use a tongue scrapper to remove bacteria
• Fluoride mouth rinses and toothpastes will help with plaque buildup
• Rinse and swish your mouth with water after brushing
• Always rinse your toothbrush with water after brushing, store it upright and allow to air-dry; never store a wet toothbrush a closed container. Keep toothbrushes separate from others
• Replace your toothbrush or electric toothbrush head at least every three to four months or sooner, if bristles look frayed
• Treatment of periodontal or gum disease will get rid of odor causing bacteria
• Avoid foods like onions and garlic that get into your bloodstream and lungs and power through your breath
• Inquire about new medications you are taking if you think they might be cause of sudden bad breath
• Don’t smoke!
• Eat less sugary candy and mints
• Eat more apples and oranges
• Drink plenty of water and try a tasty sugarless gum to help create more saliva, the mouth’s natural cleaner.

Here’s to your happy mouth and sweet breath!