Basic steps that help you prevent bad breath

Bad breath or halitosis is a very embarrassing problem. Bacteria live in your mouth and when you eat food, the bacteria acts on this food. In this process some oral bacteria produces waster products which are sulfur compounds that cause bad breath.

This problem can be difficult and embarrassing not just for the sufferer but also for the people around them. If you happen to be in a job where you have to speak a lot, the problem of bad breath becomes highlighted. Here are some tips on how you can prevent bad breath from arising:

* Brush regularly as this will remove food particles stuck in your teeth ridges. Such particles interact with saliva and cause bad breath. Take to brushing twice a day and flossing once a day.

* Change your diet to a well balanced mix of protein, carbohydrates and fats. You need to take in more of fruits and veggies. Drinking plenty of water to keep your digestive tract lean and reduce the problem of bad breath.

* Chewing on herbs coriander, spearmint, tarragon, eucalyptus, rosemary and cardamom helps to fight off bad odor. You can also put all these herbs together into hot water, make a tea and have them this way. These herbs make good digestives.

* Regularly have yogurt that includes active cultures. Ensure that the yoghurt t you select is not overly processed or sugar-added ones.

* Take in foods that are rich in Vitamin C. Fruits such as berries, citrus fruits, melons will not allow bacteria to grow. They help to prevent gum disease and gingivitis, both of which can cause halitosis.

* Use sugarless mint and gum as this raises saliva production in the mouth which rinses of plaque and bacteria.

* Avoid alcohol as these can result in bad breath.

* Using mouthwash that has chlorine dioxide can help fight off bad breath

* Use a tongue cleaner to clean your tongue and remove mucus and proteins. Doing this will freshen your breath.

* Visit the dentist and check for problem such as gingivitis, plaque or decayed tooth as such problems are a major source of bad breath. Take to cleaning your teeth with the dentist regularly.