Breath strips are thin, water-soluble polymer films designed for rapid, temporary breath freshening, offering a discreet alternative to gum or mints. They are composed of film-forming agents like pullulan, along with plasticizers for flexibility. These films are infused with potent flavor compounds, such as menthol, which are rapidly released upon contact with saliva. The primary mechanism is instant dissolution in the mouth, delivering a burst of flavor that quickly masks volatile sulfur compounds responsible for bad breath.
Step-by-Step Application
Proper application begins by ensuring your fingers are completely dry before handling the strip, as moisture causes premature dissolution. Carefully remove a single strip from its dispenser, being mindful of its delicate nature. The most effective placement is directly on the center or roof of the tongue, where it contacts the highest concentration of saliva.
Once the film is placed, allow the strip to dissolve naturally within seconds. The hydrophilic polymer base rapidly hydrates and disintegrates upon exposure to saliva. Avoid the impulse to chew, move the strip around, or press it against your teeth, as this interferes with the uniform dissolution process. Let it rest until it completely disappears, releasing its freshening agents across the oral cavity.
Optimizing Usage for Maximum Effect
The effectiveness of a breath strip is enhanced by the oral environment, making hydration an important factor. A dry mouth, often caused by dehydration or certain medications, slows the dissolution rate and inhibits the distribution of flavor compounds. Consuming water before using the strip stimulates saliva production, ensuring the film dissolves quickly and evenly for the best experience.
Timing the application is beneficial, as strips are most effective immediately following consumption of strong-smelling foods or beverages like coffee, garlic, or onions. To maximize the contact time of the freshening ingredients, avoid drinking or eating immediately after the strip has fully dissolved. Waiting a few minutes allows the active ingredients, which may include antimicrobial agents like zinc acetate, to linger and temporarily inhibit odor-causing bacteria.
Common Misunderstandings and Storage
A frequent misunderstanding is that chewing the strip speeds up its effect. However, chewing causes the strip to clump, reducing the surface area needed for rapid, smooth dissolution. The strips are engineered to dissolve rapidly on their own, and forceful manipulation prevents the intended release of the flavor matrix. While the strips are edible, swallowing them whole is not the intended use and bypasses the immediate freshening effect.
Proper storage is necessary for maintaining the integrity and efficacy of the films, which are highly sensitive to moisture and heat. Always keep the strips in their original dispenser and ensure the container is sealed tightly after each use to prevent exposure to ambient humidity. Store the dispenser in a cool, dry place, typically at room temperature (68°F to 77°F), away from direct sunlight or humid environments like bathrooms. This prevents the films from sticking together or dissolving prematurely.