How-To Information for Modern Life
“If somebody ever offers you a mint, take it” Unknown
I once had a dental hygienist with a breath fetish. The woman was obsessed. And, really, she’s right. Nobody except your mother will tell you if you’ve got hideous breath, so take prophylactic steps. Life is full of real issues; why waste time with pretenders-to-the-throne? Here’s her wisdom, condensed.
Tongue scrapers Forget brushing your tongue with a toothbrush; the problem gunk which provides the rank smell resides at the very back of the throat and tongue. You have to use the scraper so far back it produces the gag reflex. Minimize this by standing upright with head slightly back. You will be disgusted at the yucky stuff you will extract; however it’s the number one bad-breath producer.
Smoking This is a no-brainer. Cigarettes linger on your breath. The best approach is to quit, but if you won’t do it for your lungs, then do it for your sex life.
A long time without water When the mouth becomes dry, it’s trouble. A bottle of water dissipates the situation.
Flossing I never flossed regularly until I made the breath connection. Like they say, only floss the teeth you want to keep. This also protects against heart disease which can be borne on the wings of gum disease.
New toothbrush every 3 months Ok, this one is hard to remember, but if you buy three brushes at a time, it is easier. Plus you’ll get a new one from the dentist twice a year when you go in for cleanings, so you are halfway home already.
Mints don’t really work, but gum does. As soon as mints dissolve, the problem returns, but even worse because the sugar is now working against you. A bit of gum in the mouth keeps saliva flowing, a primary weapon against dry-mouth (a prime offender).