Tips for Valentine's Date Kissable Freshness

makeup artist: Tyron Machhausen

Whether you are spending hundreds of dollars on a special Valentine’s Day dinner or cuddling up for an evening at home, everyone knows that sizzle can fizzle if you don’t make sure you’re breath is fresh and kissable!

Dr. Dan Smith, a dentist based in the Los Angeles area, sees an influx of patients looking for advice on how to keep their breath minty fresh before a big Valentine’s Day date. Aside from carrying your own personal toothbrush and toothpaste, there are some simple ways to avoid and cure bad breath discreetly while on a date, which means one less Valentine’s Day issue to worry about. Dr. Smith has some simple tips that can help both men and women feel more confidant.

Dr. Smith’s Date Night Advice

When Placing Your Order…

• Meat eaten in large quantities can cause bad breath, mostly due to the digestion process, which begins in the mouth.
• Carbohydrates cause the strongest odors in the mouth – sugars, starches, and cellulose
• Milk intolerance is also a cause of bad breath. If you are sensitive to dairy products – steer clear of ice cream desserts!
  
  

After Your Meal…

• Lick the inside of your wrist. This is the best test to see if your breath is foul.
• Use dental floss. Bad breath can be caused by food caught in your teeth.
• Chew your garnish! Parsley is a well-known home remedy for bad breath.
• Order the fruit dessert. Fresh fruits help cleanse the mouth after a meal and flush away odor-causing bacteria
  

At the Bar…

• Alcohol dries out the mouth, which reduces saliva production.
• Mojitos contain lots of fresh mint, so order one and ask for an extra mint garnish to chew on after you finish your drink.
• Water will help thwart the dehydration effect of alcohol. Order one glass of water for every drink and you’ll stay sober and sweet!
• Alcohol consumption causes digestive problems which leads to bad breath. In addition, alcohol dries out the mouth, which reduces saliva production.

Daniel Smith, D.D.S., F.A.G.D graduated in 1981 from the University of California , Los Angeles (UCLA) School of Dentistry. For more information and tips from Dr. Dan, visit Focus Dental Institute online.