CHEWING mints to solve bad breath will make it worse, an expert says.
One in five people say they regularly eat the sweets to freshen their breath.
MINTS SO PONG Chewing mints makes bad breath worse rather than freshening it, experts claim
But one expert claims mints add to oral odour, rather than getting rid of it. Dentist James Buchanan said: “Mints are a popular way to expel bad breath.
“However, mouth bacteria turns sugar in mints to acid which wears down teeth and causes bad breath. It is best to use something like a sugar-free gum.” Eating yoghurt and fruit for breakfast will combat oral odours, he added.
Celery and apples will also increase saliva, which washes away odour-causing particles. The Vital Statistics survey asked 2,000 people about their dental hygiene habits.
It and found only 52 per cent brush their teeth twice a day, which is the recommended amount.
An estimated 21million people fear having bad breath at work or when with family and friends.
Mr Buchanan, a spokesman for White Glo, continued: “While trapped food particles can contribute to bad breath, the most common cause is plaque build-up on teeth.” He suggested using a soft bristle toothbrush as hard brushes tend to damage the enamel.
This harm can lead to tooth decay and even worse breath.