I get what you’re saying about string floss feeling gentler, but I’ve actually had the opposite experience with my kid. The picks seem to give her more control, so she’s less likely to jab her gums by accident. Maybe it’s an age thing? Also, we’ve tried a few different mouthwashes, and oddly enough, the alcohol-free ones sometimes leave a weird aftertaste for her. We’ve ended up just sticking to brushing really thoroughly at night—especially after any late-night snacks. Brushing *and* scraping the tongue seems to make a bigger difference than mouthwash ever did for us.
That’s interesting about the floss picks—my youngest actually prefers them too, even though I always thought string was gentler. I guess it really does depend on the kid. We had a similar thing with mouthwash; for me, the alcohol-free ones taste fine, but my son says they’re “slimy.” Tongue scraping has been a game-changer for all of us, though. I never realized how much gunk could build up overnight until I tried it myself. Brushing after late-night snacks is a must in our house, especially if there’s chocolate involved...
Tongue scraping has been a game-changer for all of us, though. I never realized how much gunk could build up overnight until I tried it myself.
It’s wild how much difference that one step makes, right? I was skeptical about tongue scrapers but after the first try, it was honestly kind of gross but also satisfying. As for mouthwash, my partner complains about the “slimy” feel too—maybe it’s the glycerin or some other additive in the alcohol-free ones. I still stick with them since the burning from regular mouthwash is just too much for me. Late-night chocolate is definitely a culprit for morning dragon breath... I’ve noticed if I skip brushing after, it’s way worse.
As for mouthwash, my partner complains about the “slimy” feel too—maybe it’s the glycerin or some other additive in the alcohol-free ones. I still stick with them since the burning from regular mouthwash is just too much for me.
That “slimy” sensation is honestly a common complaint, and you might be onto something with the glycerin. But here’s the thing—mouthwash isn’t always a must-have for everyone, especially if it’s not making your mouth feel fresher or more comfortable. Some people actually find that rinsing with plain water after brushing and tongue scraping does the trick, especially if you’re already pretty thorough with your brushing and flossing routine. And if you’re using mouthwash right after brushing, it could even wash away some of the fluoride from your toothpaste, which is kind of counterproductive.
I get what you mean about the burning from regular mouthwash—some of those alcohol-based ones are brutal. But there are also some in-between options that don’t have as much alcohol but aren’t loaded up with sweeteners or thickeners, so they feel less slimy. It’s a bit of trial and error, honestly. I had to go through a few brands before I found one that didn’t leave my mouth feeling weird.
And about tongue scraping—totally agree, it’s a game-changer. But I’ve seen folks get a little too aggressive with it and end up with sore tongues. Gentle pressure is key. Sometimes just a soft toothbrush can work too, if you don’t have a scraper handy.
Late-night chocolate... yeah, guilty here too. I used to think brushing before bed was enough, but if you sneak a snack after, it really does make a difference. Brushing again, or at least rinsing out your mouth, seems to help a lot.
One thing I’d add: if dragon breath is still sticking around even after all these steps, it might be worth checking in with a dentist to rule out things like dry mouth or sinus issues. Sometimes it’s not just about what’s happening in your mouth overnight.
Anyway, finding what works is super personal. What feels fresh and clean for one person might not for someone else.
if dragon breath is still sticking around even after all these steps, it might be worth checking in with a dentist to rule out things like dry mouth or sinus issues.
Had this with my kid—no matter what we tried, morning breath was rough. Dentist said allergies and mouth breathing at night played a big part. Saline spray before bed actually helped more than changing mouthwashes. Worth a shot.
