Bad breath could be really embarrassing so much that some find it hard to talk in the midst of people. If this is you, know that you are not alone and that anyone can suffer from bad breath. In fact, it is estimated that 1 in 4 people have bad breath on a regular basis which means that it is relatively common and often very easy to treat and prevent.

Halitosis, commonly referred to as bad breath is a foul odor emanating from the mouth. Bad breath can result from poor dental habits, the type of foods you eat, unhealthy lifestyle choices and it could even be a sign of other health problems. While the smell might vary from person to person based on the underlying factors, you can take steps to prevent and treat bad breath at home.
If you notice your breath has been less than fresh lately, here are 4 effective ways to prevent bad breath.

1. Drink plenty of water

Food particles breaking down in and around your teeth can promote germs and cause bad breath, but drinking enough of water will help wash these particles away and keep your mouth moist. Furthermore, studies suggest that dry mouth frequently leads to poor breath, and saliva plays a critical part in keeping your mouth clean. As a result, keep your body hydrated with plenty of water to increase saliva production and prevent dry mouth.

Drink water whenever you notice your mouth drying out. Aim for a minimum of eight glasses of water every day. You might also eat sugarless gum to increase saliva production.

2. Brushing and flossing should not be neglected.

The most prevalent cause of foul breath is poor dental hygiene, but you can avoid plaque accumulation by brushing and flossing your teeth. Brush your teeth at least twice a day, especially after meals, using fluoride toothpaste. Flossing at least once a day is also helpful for preventing or reducing the buildup of food particles and plaque in your teeth.

Bacteria can also collect on the tongue, generating a foul odor, therefore tongue scraping is recommended to help remove a thin coating of film. You can use a toothbrush or a tongue scraper to do this.