Breath mints are not the solution to bad breath or halitosis. They merely cover up the odors and do not fix the underlying causes.

While there are many options that are perfectly healthy for your teeth, mints are not one of them. While powerful enough to freshen your breath, these hard candies can cause further damage to your teeth, putting you at risk for excessive tooth decay.

Discover what makes the best breath mints so effective, and start enjoying clean, fresh breath again.

• Altoids. Image via Flickr by Dorothy Moerlein.
• Tic Tacs.
• TheraBreath Lozenges.
• Peppersmith Mints.
• Sencha Naturals Mints.
• Listerine PocketPaks Breath Strips.
• Natural Fresheners.
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In a disc-shaped plastic tin, sold as "Breath Savers 3 Hour Mints". In an oblong container, sold as "Breath Savers Protect". This is a deposit mint made of 99% xylitol.

To reduce or prevent bad breath:

1. Brush your teeth after you eat. Keep a toothbrush at work to use after eating.
2. Floss at least once a day.
3. Brush your tongue.
4. Clean dentures or dental appliances.
5. Avoid dry mouth.
6. Adjust your diet.
7. Regularly get a new toothbrush.
8. Schedule regular dental checkups.

Not only do sugar-free mints freshen up your breath and help combat cavity-causing bacteria, but they also encourage saliva production. Saliva is essential for wicking bad-breath bacteria off the surface of your teeth.

Everyone has bad breath from time to time. Some people get it after eating a fragrant meal, while others might have it due to their morning coffee. Whatever the cause, though, many treat the issue with something like a breath mint. However, the truth is that chewing gum is the better option when it comes to your teeth.

Many of these sugar alcohols are known for causing digestive issues like diarrhea. The reason your stomach can't digest many sugar alcohols well is that they can't cross the cell walls. This incomplete absorption causes your intestines to extract fluid from your colon, which can lead to diarrhea.

Because breath mints only temporarily help with bad breath, many people are tempted to have multiple mints, which can lead to prolonged exposure to the sugar in the mints. This prolonged exposure to the sugar found in mints ends up feeding the bacteria in your mouth, which can cause cavities & tooth decay.

If you suspect your dog has ingested a product containing xylitol, contact a veterinarian or pet poison hotline right away!

Xylitol can help with bad breath, related to sulfur compounds by hydrating your mouth. There are many different products that contain Xylitol. Literature states that 6-12 grams daily is an ideal dose if consuming gum or mints.

If bad breath is due to GERD, drugs such as H2 blockers, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), or antacids may also be recommended.