Get Rid of Bad Breath: 10 Tips

You’re probably wondering why this is categorized as etiquette, as opposed to general health advice. Well, I’ll tell you – keeping your breath fresh is just common courtesy. It’s completely unacceptable to subject others to anything less, especially if you share a cubicle with them. And, hey, if your halitosis is caused by an underlying health issue, I sympathize - but that doesn’t mean the rest of us have to suffer, does it??

No matter the cause, there are plenty of resources available to freshen that skunk breath up! And before you accuse me of being un-PC or insensitive, I used to have some seriously kicking breath when I was a kid. Fortunately, someone told me, and I have been conscious of it ever since. Don’t put yourself in a position where someone has to offer you a tic-tac!

1. Gum

There are 50 million flavors out there. Sugar-filled, sugar-free, etc – something for everyone. And it’s cheap. Which is a good thing, cos the effects don’t last long. So, if you work in an office, pop a stick in as you arrive. Pop a stick in after lunch. Pop a stick in before each meeting. Pop a stick in before chatting someone up at the watercooler. You get the idea.

2. Tic-Tacs

The old stand-by. Personally, they don’t impress me. Sure, they’re low in calories – but they neglect to mention you’ll need a whole bottle of them if you want to cover up that garlic soup you ate at lunch time. Nevertheless, they do work and they taste good, so you might not mind consuming the entire container.

3. Listerine Breath Strips

Have you seen these? They come in a little tiny package, and resemble mini strips of clear paper. You stick one on your tongue and it dissolves. By the time it’s gone, you have fresh breath.

4. Altoids

These are seriously strong mints. I can still remember the first time I had one – bit straight into the sucker. My eyes started watering. But, boy, was my breath fresh for the next few hours.

5. Breath Spray

Binaca and similar products are great for freshening up your mouth in a hurry. One or two sprays and you’re good to go. I recommend one spray to the tongue, as that’s where most of the bacteria are lurking.

6. Floss

Why don’t people floss their teeth? I’m guessing it’s because they don’t realize how not doing so contributes to bad breath. That gick hiding out between your teeth stinks to high heaven if you leave it there long enough. You could eliminate 50% of your stank just by flossing every day – your gums will also benefit, so floss, damn it!

7. Mouthwash

You can keep one of those travel-sized bottles of Listerine in your purse or in your desk. Rinsing your mouth after lunch will do wonders and can even make you feel refreshed and perky.

8. Sucker Candy

Most of you would call this hard candy. You know, the kind Brach makes. My mother used to live on those red and white starlight mints. Well, that and 3 packs of smokes a day. But her breath was minty-fresh!

9. Switch from Coffee to Tea

This will do an excellent job of keeping your breath in order. It won’t give it a minty glow, but it will definitely neutralize bad breath stank.

10. Chew on Mint Leaves

If you’re one of those hippie health people who wants to be sure additives and other chems aren’t going into your mouth, this is the way to go. You can pick up fresh mint from most health food shops. Take a bit to work and munch on it throughout the day. Sound weird? Well, yeah, it is – but it works. Don't let bad breath come between you and your job. Or your lovelife, for that matter. Keep on top of it with one of these tips. You'll be glad you did!