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Halitosis can also be caused by factors outside of the oral cavity, which are referred to as extraoral causes. While less common than intraoral causes, there are a number of non-oral diseases that can trigger bad breath.The following are some of the most common extraoral causes of halitosis:
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There are two types of halitosis or bad breath, which can vary depending on the cause. In the following sections, we will define each type and highlight their differences.
Talk to your dentist or hygienist about the best practices for oral hygiene and get regular professional cleanings.
Say Goodbye to Embarrassing Odors: Tips for Fresh Breath
Halitosis is defined as a chronic bad breath that mint and mouthwash can’t solve, as mentioned above. Also known as fetor oris, halitosis can make an affected person subconscious and they feel reluctant to hang out with larger groups of people because they are embarrassed by their bad breath. It is estimated that 1 in 4 people have halitosis on a regular basis[i]. According to the latest statistics, an estimated 25% of the world population is having trouble with this annoying symptom. After tooth decay and gum disease, halitosis is the third most common reason people seek dental care[ii]. As should you if you ever notice that your toothpaste or mouthwash does not seem to win the fight over that awful bad breath.
2. Improves taste: A coated tongue can affect your sense of taste. By removing the coating with a tongue scraper, you can improve your ability to taste food and enjoy flavors more fully.
There is a strong link between halitosis and gum disease. Gum disease is caused by the buildup of plaque and bacteria along the gumline, leading to inflammation and infection. This can result in bad breath.
Interestingly, we find that more people are noticing an unpleasant smell as they wear the requisite masks during the current COVID-19 pandemic. So it is appropriate to ask the question: Does wearing a mask give us the opportunity to smell our own breath?
If you use tobacco, it’s a good idea to quit, and not just for your breath, either. Tobacco use can lead to tooth loss as well as dental implant failure.
Tonsil stones are generally not harmful and do not cause any health problems. However, they can cause bad breath and discomfort.
On the other hand, foods that are high in fiber, such as fruits and vegetables, can help prevent the formation of tonsil stones. Fiber-rich foods promote saliva production, which helps flush out debris and bacteria from the mouth.
The bad breath caused by certain foods is easily remedied by altering the diet. You can maintain a perfectly healthy diet while avoiding particularly smelly foods. Some studies even show that diets high in dairy products can cause bad odors in the mouth. If you are unsure which food is responsible for your bad breath, these are the top ones to avoid:
Natural Remedies for Bad Breath
Yes, small tonsil stones can be removed at home using a cotton swab or the back of your toothbrush. However, if you have large tonsil stones or are experiencing severe symptoms, it's best to see a doctor.
Dr. Nguyen has served on the Virginia Board of Dentistry and has many achievements such as: Invisalign Premier and Teen Provider, Pre-Fellow with Academy of General Dentistry, Graduate of Aesthetic Continuum, Engel Institute for Dental Implant Training, WaveOne Endodontic Training, HD President’s Club.
[vii] National diabetes statistics report, CDC https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/data/statistics/statistics-report.html Home Philosophy Dion Health Services Resources Physician Referrals New Patients Existing Patients