Bad breath 'biggest worry on dates'

Bad breath is unpleasant and can be a major cause for embarrassment. And when it comes to dating, a majority of women admit that it's their biggest worry, a new survey has revealed.

According to the survey, nearly eight out of 10 women in Britain consider bad breath as a headache before a romantic encounter with a bloke.

Researchers have based their findings on a poll of 1,000 women. They found that 78 percent of women were more likely to fret about their teeth and breath before worrying what their partner thought about their clothes or general appearance, The Daily Telegraph reported.

However, only four percent said they were concerned about what underwear they should put on when on a date. Miranda Honan, a Spokeswoman for Macleans, which commissioned the survey, said: "People's impressions of us are heavily influenced by how healthy our teeth look when we smile and talk."

"Our research shows people make instant assumptions about your confidence and character dependent on how healthy your teeth are and how fresh your breath is. If you always feel happy with your teeth you will smile, and if you smile more you will boost others' perceptions of you."

"Then, in turn, other people will see you as more confident and attractive."

Illustration: Uttam Ghosh