Bad breath is typically thought of as an embarrassment-a social faux pas that will cause even our best friends to gingerly take a step back if our breath reeks of onions, garlic, cheese, sardines, or some other aromatically offensive food. What many of us tend to forget is that bad breath is a health issue caused by the buildup of bacteria in our mouths.

With that in mind, National Fresh Breath Day is celebrated on August 6 every year as a way of promoting oral hygiene and encouraging everyone to take their oral health seriously.

The easiest way to take care of our teeth and gums is by committing to a dental hygiene routine that includes brushing and flossing our teeth at least twice daily and regularly visiting the dentist. Even though most of us follow the basic dental hygiene routine, over 50 percent of the bacteria found naturally in the human mouth can cause bad breath. Brushing twice a day and using mouthwash is the most common and obvious way of preventing this. However, some people with serious problems such as halitosis (the medical term for bad breath) may struggle to get through the day despite brushing their teeth properly and using a good mouthwash. In such cases, it's always advisable to seek medical attention.

It's also not uncommon for people to turn to mints and chewing gums that contain sugar as a quick solution to prevent bad breath. This can actually do more harm than good in the long run. So, if you choose to use mints and chewing gums, opt for sugar, preservative, and dye-free brands.

With proper oral hygiene and regular visits to the dentist, every day can be Fresh Breath Day.