Whether you're on a first date or having a romantic meal with your spouse, you won't want to have bad breath. As any dentist will attest, fresh breath is often a direct result of oral care. The more attentive you are to your teeth, gums, and tongue, the less likely it is that your breath will have an unwanted odor. To prevent bad breath before your date, follow these steps.

How to Keep Your Breath Fresh for Date Night

1. Brush & Floss Beforehand

Before your date, take a few moments to remove food debris and bacteria from your mouth. Brush your teeth, floss to get rid of trapped food particles, and use a bit of toothpaste to scrub both sides of your tongue and as far back as you can reach comfortably. Top it off by rinsing with a bit of mouthwash to kill any remaining odor-causing germs. If you have recurring halitosis, ask your dentist to recommend products that'll help.

2. Avoid Garlic & Onion

Garlic and onions are known to create lingering odors, so take care when ordering your meal or cooking. That garlic bread may sound yummy, but it could have unintended, after-dinner consequences. Instead, opt for foods that help your breath stay fresh, such as ginger, parsley, mint, and most raw fruits and vegetables.

3. Drink Plenty of Water

Stay hydrated during your date by drinking lots of water. This rinses your mouth of food particles, bacteria, and dead cells that might cause odors. It also stimulates saliva production, which naturally breaks down food residue and fights germs that cause bad breath.

For a dentist you can trust, contact David J. Novak, DDS, PA, in High Point, NC. They've served the Piedmont Triad area since 1983, offering everything from general teeth cleanings to halitosis treatment. Read what their patients have to say about them by visiting their website, or call (336) 884-1833 to make an appointment today.