Beyond the Smile: Confronting the Oral Health Crisis in the Philippines and Building a Path Forward. The Silent Epidemic: Statistics That Tell a Painful Story

Welcome to the "Bagong Ngiti" Blog – Your guide to uncovering the truth behind common dental health issues in the Philippines.

How many times have you whispered that question to yourself, followed by a frantic mint or a vigorous brush? In the Philippines, it's a common scene: we notice a lingering bad breath, feel a slight toothache, or see a spot of blood in the sink, and our immediate thought is, "Bahala na, mamaya na 'yan." We promise ourselves we’ll visit the clinic... later.

As a dental expert with 30 years of experience, I can confidently say that bad breath (halitosis) can definitely affect kissing, especially with your girlfriend or partner. Bad breath can be off-putting and may make your partner uncomfortable, reducing intimacy. The good news is that it’s treatable and preventable with the right oral care and habits.

Best Mouthwashes for Fresh Breath

Not all mouthwashes are equal—some just mask odor, while others kill bacteria. Here are the best types to use: