MoneyConsumer Alerts

Actions

Tips to fighting bad breath and the best products to use

Posted
and last updated

No one wants bad breath. But there’s a simple solution: clean your mouth.

“Bad breath is pretty much from bad hygiene,” says Dr. Noah Ariola-Tirella.

The products you use do make a difference, but you don’t need to spend a lot of money. The only active ingredient you need to worry about to clean your teeth is sodium fluoride. Dr. Ariola-Tirella says Crest toothpaste is a great option.

As for mouthwash, fluoride and peroxide are the ingredients you’ll want to see in your products. However, some products only contain water, mint flavoring and sugar.

Not all of us carry a toothbrush and toothpaste, but a quick fix is often a piece of gum. Dr. Ariola-Tirella says it doesn’t last long but it can tide you over. He says to look for gum that has the ingredient xylitol. Trident is a great brand.

"It doesn't let you grow bacteria; it's non sugar containing," Dr. Ariola-Tirella says.

When it’s all said and done, the cure for bad breath ultimately comes to flossing.

"It's what still in your mouth, not what you are eating at that second,” Dr. Ariola-Tirella explains. “It's what still is in there afterwards."