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You’ve just enjoyed a lovely evening of romantic conversation and flirtatious smiles. Now the date has come to an end. As your date moves closer, your brain kicks into overdrive. You begin to worry about the possibility of food stuck in your teeth, and then that one, all-important question takes center stage: How’s my breath? Nothing can bring a romantic evening to a screeching halt quite like bad breath. Luckily, your Mansfield dentists, Dr. Blair Jones and Dr. Seth Harris, are here with some tips for keeping your breath fresh this Valentine’s Day.

What Causes Bad Breath?

Bacteria are the main cause of bad breath. Sickness can be another source of bad breath, but for the most part, removing bacteria removes the source of bad breath. Dehydration can also contribute to bad breath because the mouth does not produce as much saliva when dehydrated. Saliva plays a role in keeping the mouth free of bacteria. Without sufficient salvia, your mouth is not as effective in its defense against bacteria, so be sure to stay hydrated.

Tips for Fresh Breath

Be sure to brush and floss your teeth prior to your Valentine’s Day celebrations. Neglecting to floss can allow bacteria to remain on surfaces of your teeth that your toothbrush cannot reach. Also, be sure to brush your tongue as well to remove bacteria from its surface.

Following dinner, be sure to avoid gum and mints. Both typically contain sugar, meaning that they feed rather than kill the bacteria in your mouth. Consider excusing yourself to rinse your mouth quickly with water or to brush your teeth.

Schedule a Visit with Your Mansfield Dentist

Regular dental visits can be an important part of fresh breath. If plaque and tartar have taken up residence in your mouth, a dental visit could be just the thing to restore your fresh breath. If it has been six months since your last dental visit, schedule an appointment with your Mansfield dentists, Dr. Jones and Dr. Harris, by calling 817-473-6227. We proudly serve Mansfield and the surrounding communities of South Arlington, Kennedale, Southeast Ft. Worth, Alvarado, and Midlothian.