In addition to practicing good oral hygiene and seeking medical attention when necessary, there are several lifestyle changes that can help maintain fresh breath. Quitting smoking or using tobacco products can significantly improve the smell of your breath, as well as your overall health.
Even if yours came out painlessly, tonsil stones might leave traces of bacteria in your mouth or open, sore areas on your tonsils that need to be kept clean if you don’t want to develop more tonsil stones down the road.
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When you experience heartburn or acid reflux, acid and some undigested food from the stomach can flow back up the esophagus, sometimes into the mouth. The combination of partially or undigested food and acid washing back into the mouth can lead to bad breath.
If you don't brush and floss your teeth everyday, food particles remain on your teeth and cause bad breath. In addition, if you wear dentures, food can become lodged underneath your dentures, creating an unpleasant smell. Odor-causing bacteria can also collect on the tongue, which many people fail to clean as part their oral health routine.
Cigarette smoke has a very strong odor, so it should be little surprise that it’s a common cause of bad breath. Cigarettes and other tobacco products can also increase your risk of gum and bone disease, which can also contribute to bad breath.
- Fresh fruits and vegetables: Crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples, carrots, and celery can help stimulate saliva production, which can help wash away bacteria and freshen your breath.
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In addition to poor oral hygiene and dietary factors, certain medical conditions can cause chronic bad breath. Dry mouth, or xerostomia, reduces saliva production, which leads to an increase in bacteria in the mouth. Sinus infections and respiratory conditions can also contribute to bad breath due to the presence of mucus and bacteria in the nasal passages.
Fortunately, starting or resuming an oral care routine at home can quickly bring an end to your bad breath. Your hygienist can show you how to brush and floss if you need a refresher on the best way to do it. Seeing a dental professional for regular cleanings and checkups can also help treat bad breath caused by poor oral hygiene.
The Risks of Ignoring Tonsil Stones and Halitosis
If you have tonsil stones, you probably want to get rid of that sulfur odor from your throat, and there are many ways to do so.
Cough: You might discover that you have a tonsil stone when you cough. Coughing with some energy may help in loosening the stone.
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If food is the cause of your bad breath, brush your teeth after you eat. Antibacterial toothpaste can help prevent bad breath. Don’t forget to brush your tongue as well as your teeth. Make sure to also floss at least once a day to get rid of trapped food particles that can cause bad breath. Finally, rinse with a mouthwash containing fluoride to eliminate odors and give your teeth an extra layer of protection.
Choosing the right mouthwash can help freshen your breath and promote good oral hygiene. Look for a mouthwash that contains antibacterial ingredients such as chlorhexidine or cetylpyridinium chloride. These ingredients can help kill the bacteria responsible for causing bad breath.
Conclusion: Tips for Preventing Chronic Bad Breath and Maintaining Good Oral Health
To remove your tonsil stones, use a tonsil stone pick or water flosser on a very low setting, but never put too much pressure on your tonsils, even if you cannot get the stone out. Check out my article on the best tonsil stone removal tools.