National Fresh Breath Day is observed every year on August 6.

It’s an opportunity for your dental office to promote oral hygiene while engaging with patients in a fun, educational way. 

While the origins of this day remain a mystery, dental professionals use National Fresh Breath Day as a way to raise awareness about fresh breath and oral health.

Why Celebrate Fresh Breath?

Fresh breath not only boosts confidence and personal comfort — it also reflects good oral hygiene and overall health. Celebrating this day shows patients your commitment to their well-being while giving your office a moment to have some fun, attract new clients, and share helpful resources.

What Causes Bad Breath?

Bad breath, or halitosis, can be caused by:

• Bacteria buildup on the tongue
• Dry mouth from dehydration or medications
• Gum disease or tooth decay
• Poor oral hygiene routines
• Certain foods like garlic, onions, or coffee

Helping patients understand these causes—and how to prevent them—is a great educational moment for your team.

6 Creative Ways to Celebrate National Fresh Breath Day

1. Share Tips with Patients

Provide your patients with actionable fresh breath advice, such as:

• Brush after meals (don’t forget the tongue!)
• Replace your toothbrush every 3 months
• Floss daily to remove plaque and bacteria
• Use mouthwash or an alcohol-free rinse
• Stay hydrated to reduce dry mouth
• Schedule a professional cleaning regularly

Smart Tip: Create a downloadable or printed checklist patients can take home!

2. Offer Goodie Bags or Prizes

Prepare goodie bags with travel-sized fresh breath essentials like toothpaste, mouthwash, gum, and toothbrushes. If cost allows, Include branded items and coupons for future dental services.

Or, consider running a small giveaway with prizes like free cleanings, dental kits, or gift cards.

Smart Tip: Personalize magnets with your dental office name and logo for long-lasting brand exposure.

3. Host an Educational Demonstration

Providing education is helpful to your patients and the community. While there are many places you can host a demonstration, the easiest is probably your office. Other places to host a demonstration include:

1. Local health and wellness clinics
2. Schools
3. Local health organizations
4. County health departments

Looking for ideas on what to talk about? Here are some topics you might consider:

1. Brushing techniques
2. Flossing techniques
3. How to clear your tongue
4. The impact of diet on breath quality
5. How to keep your breath fresh after a meal

Smart Tip: Record and post your demonstration to social media for extra reach.

4. Post to Social Media

Posting to social media helps build brand awareness and improve patient retention. 

Consider sharing videos throughout the week featuring you and your staff. Tips, fun facts, and jokes can be a great way to engage your audience.

If you want to get really fancy, feature some patient testimonials or before-and-afters.

Don’t forget to use hashtags like:

• #NationalFreshBreathDay
• #FreshBreath
• #OralHygiene
• #YourPracticeName

Smart Tip: Use video content. It gets more engagement and shares on social.

5. Throw an Office Party

Organize a small party with refreshments for your staff and patients. Use mints and breath-themed decorations to tie in the theme.

Smart Tip: Snap photos and post them to your social accounts!

6. Educate Kids About Fresh Breath

If you're a pediatric dental office, consider presenting at a local school or hosting a kids’ event in your office. Use visual aids and reward students with fun giveaways.

Smart Tip: Include a branded toothbrush and a “New Patient Special” coupon for parents to encourage bookings.

A Brief History of National Fresh Breath Day

How National Fresh Breath Day started is unknown. 

It seems to have gained popularity in the early 2000s as dental offices began embracing social media and awareness campaigns. 

Today, National Fresh Breath Day is recognized and celebrated across the U.S. as a way to promote better oral hygienen and habits.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is National Fresh Breath Day?

It’s celebrated every year on August 6.

What causes bad breath?

Common causes include bacteria on the tongue, gum disease, dry mouth, and dietary choices.

How can I get rid of bad breath?

Brush and floss daily, clean your tongue, hydrate often, and visit your dentist regularly.

Is bad breath a sign of something serious?

Sometimes. Persistent halitosis may indicate gum disease, infection, or even systemic conditions. A dental check-up is the best way to determine the cause.

Celebrate with Confidence

National Fresh Breath Day is a chance to connect with patients and make oral hygiene fun and memorable. 

Whether you go big or keep it simple, your effort will not go unnoticed.

How do you plan to celebrate National Fresh Breath Day? 

Sources: ADA - Bad Breath, Mayo Clinic - Halitosis

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