How to have sweet-smelling breath

Beating bad breath
In the morning when you brush your teeth, also gently brush your tongue. This will scrape away any bacteria and will have the effect of freshening your breath as well as both the taste and smell of your mouth. Tongue scrapers are available at most chemists but, alternatively, you can use a toothbrush, dipped in mouthwash for cleaning your tongue.

Although statistics reveal that around 85 per cent of cases of halitosis are related to the mouth, if you've suffered with bad breath for any length of time it's important to check out the cause, rather than simply masking it with mouthwashes and mints. Although rare, bad breath can be a sign of problems with the sinus, stomach, kidneys, liver or lungs. Which is why your first stop should be your dentist - if only for reassurance or simply to make sure that you treat the root of the problem, rather than just the cause.

Say goodbye to bad breath
Once your dentist has checked that there is no underlying cause for your bad breath, there is plenty you can do to banish the problem.:

• Cut back on garlic, curries, onions, alcohol and cigarettes
• Use a non alcoholic mouthwash to rinse your mouth
• Avoid sugary snacks between meals as this increases the bacteria in the mouth
• Brush and floss teeth regularly
• Chew sugar free gum - it acts as a natural mouthwash as it stimulates the flow of saliva and helps flush out the nasty odour
• Chew parsley, mint, cloves or fennel seeds
• Drink plenty of water throughout the day: it helps to get the saliva moving
• Try homeopathic remedies, such as Kali Phos

Further information
To find an NHS dentist, call your local Health Authority or check Yellow Pages for the number. If in Scotland call the Health Board; in Northern Ireland, the Social Services Board.