The first, second, and even fifth date with someone new can be nerve-wracking, especially if you’re worried about your breath smelling. To save yourself from worrying, there are a number of tips you can follow to keep your breath fresh before and during the date, including working with a dentist. Here’s what you need to know. 

How to Keep Your Breath Pleasant During a Date

1. Brush & Floss Before You Leave

Brush your teeth gently for two minutes before you go out, including your tongue, to reduce odor-causing bacteria that can lead to bad breath. Floss, as well, to remove plaque, which can cause odors and decay. Also, if you haven’t visited your dentist’s office in a while, schedule a deep cleaning.

2. Keep Drinking Water

Sip water throughout the day or night to continually flush your mouth of food particles and bacteria that create foul breath. Water rinses odors away and prevents dry mouth, an issue that leads to bacteria growth and increase plaque. 

3. Limit the Alcohol

Alcohol can lead to lower inhibitions, making potentially embarrassing behavior more likely, as well as contribute to less-than-pleasant mouth odors. Alcohol strips the mouth of good bacteria that contribute to fresh breath.

4. Avoid Odorous Foods

Stay clear of foods known for causing bad breath, such as onions or garlic. If possible, order foods that naturally clean the teeth to help maintain fresh breath, such as apples, carrots, celery, and other raw vegetables. 

5. Chew Gum With Natural Oils After You Eat

Enjoy gum with cinnamon, spearmint, or peppermint oils once your meal is over to freshen your mouth. Gum also increases saliva production to wash away odorous particles, which breath mints don’t do. Mints mask bad breath rather than cleaning the mouth. 

If it’s been over six months since your last dentist visit, make an appointment with Dental Clinic of Onalaska. The La Crosse County, WI-based practice has provided patients with general and cosmetic dentistry services since 1993, including teeth cleanings, dental implants, and veneers. Call (608) 783-3341 today to schedule an appointment, or contact the second location in Trempealeau at (608) 534-6195. Visit the website or their Facebook to learn more about their services.