How to Get Rid of Cigar Breath

While enjoying a cigar with a drink might be one of life’s greatest small pleasures, the aftermath often leaves a less desirable souvenir: cigar breath. This lingering aroma can be a source of discomfort for both smokers and those around them - but fortunately, there are several strategies to mitigate or eliminate this unwanted consequence, ensuring that your enjoyment of cigars doesn’t overstay its welcome in the form of persistent odours.

So whether you're a seasoned aficionado or new to the world of cigars, here’s our guide on how to freshen up after indulging - and enhance your smoking experience and social interactions while you’re at it.

Cigar Breath Explained

Cigar breath is more than just the smell of smoke lingering in your mouth; it’s a combination of factors including the unique composition of tobacco, the oils and tar released during smoking, and how these interact with your mouth's bacteria and saliva. This concoction can stick to your mouth, teeth, and gums, making the aroma particularly stubborn.

Immediate Solutions

Right after you finish your cigar, there are a few quick fixes you can resort to; first, chewing a piece of sugar-free chewing gum or sucking on a strong mint can help mask the odour temporarily. Additionally, rinsing with a strong mouthwash or brushing your teeth can provide a more thorough initial cleanse.

Hydration Techniques

If you understand cigar buzz effects, you’ll know that alcohol is a great pairing for a smoking session. However, it’s not always the best option when it comes to odour control, as alcohol can leave dehydrating effects on the body, and this can exacerbate bad breath. Staying well-hydrated is key here: drinking plenty of water helps flush out the compounds from the cigar that can linger in your mouth and throat, so consider pairing your cigar with water or a non-alcoholic beverage or mocktail if you’re worried about the smell.

Oral Hygiene Practices

For all of us - but in particular for smokers - maintaining good oral hygiene is key. Brushing your teeth, tongue, and gums thoroughly after smoking can help remove the particles and residue that contribute to bad breath, and don't forget to floss to get rid of any particles trapped between your teeth.

Natural Remedies

There are also several natural remedies that can aid in neutralising cigar breath; chewing on fresh parsley, mint, or basil leaves can help thanks to their natural odour-neutralising properties, while drinking green tea is another effective method, as it contains antioxidants that can help freshen your breath.

The Importance of Breath Mints

They’re a good old classic, so don’t forget about breath mints! Keeping a supply of strong breath mints on hand is an easy and practical solution if you have a penchant for cigar smoking. You can also opt for varieties specifically designed to neutralise odours, rather than just mask them, for the best results.

Choosing the Right Chewing Gum

It’s worth noting that not all chewing gums are created equal when it comes to combating cigar breath. Ideally, you’ll want to look for gums that contain xylitol, a natural sweetener that not only helps with bad breath but also has been shown to reduce the risk of tooth decay.

Dietary Adjustments

What you eat can either exacerbate or help mitigate your breath - so perhaps avoid garlic bread when you plan on enjoying an after-meal cigar! Foods high in vitamin C, like oranges and strawberries, however, can create an inhospitable environment for the bacteria that contribute to bad breath.

And don’t forget to keep your cigars in a quality cigar humidor - these help to significantly preserve their flavour and freshness.

Clothing and Personal Care

Remember that cigar smoke isn’t just about your breath or teeth - some odours can also cling to your clothes and hair. If you’re smoking a particularly pungent cigar, you might want to consider changing your clothes after smoking and even hopping in the shower if possible. You can also use scented lotions or body sprays to help mask any residual scent on your skin.

Home Remedies for Lingering Smells

For those lingering smells that seem to stick around your home, consider airing out the room or using an air purifier. Placing bowls of vinegar or baking soda around can also help absorb unwanted odours - although vinegar does come with a pungent smell of its own! You can also mask smoky odours indoors by using incense sticks (although these need to be handled safely), air freshener, candles, oil diffusers and more.

The Bottom Line

Ultimately, while cigar breath might be an inevitable part of enjoying a good smoke, it doesn’t have to be a lingering problem. By following these tips, you can enjoy your cigars without worrying about the smelly aftermath, ensuring that your guilty pleasure remains a personal choice rather than a public problem.