5 Ways to Get Your Mouth Ready for Valentine's Day
Valentine's Day is here, and there are few things that could ruin your chances of getting a goodnight kiss. Bad breath and ignoring your dental care is the fastest way to drive people away.
According to the UK Mirror, a poll conducted in September found that the number one reason people give for forming negative opinions of strangers is bad breath.
As you're getting ready for you big night out with that special someone, be sure to take a few extra precautions to get your mouth ready for the perfect goodnight kiss:
Brush and Floss: Everyday Health estimates that one in four Americans has halitosis, which is consistently foul bad breath. If you're one of these individuals, then don't worry; there are plenty of things that you can do to help improve your breath. Brushing, flossing and regular exams with your dentist are the best places to start.
Utilize a Tongue Scraper: While the idea of these things may sound a little gross to someone who isn't used to them, the Mayo Clinic states that these tools can more effectively remove left over bits of food on the tongue that cause bad breath.
Avoid These Foods: While you might know that certain foods cause bad breath, did you know that they can stay in your system for up to 24 hours? Before Valentine's Day, you may want to avoid garlic, onions and lots of dairy products - all of which can potentially cause bad smells.
Eat These Foods: If you're on a low-carb diet to lose some pounds before Valentine's Day, then you may have ketone breath, caused by your body breaking down fats instead of carbs. If this is the case, then you may want to eat some apples, bananas or other healthy carb-rich foods.
Chew Gum: It's always a good idea to keep some sugar-free gum handy. Along with having the ability to freshen your breath, gum can boost saliva production in the mouth, which washes away food particles that cause bad breath.
How do you prepare for Valentine’s Day? Let us know in the comments below!