It is true that in a small percentage of cases bad breath is caused by a problem elsewhere in the body such as the ear, nose and throat, kidneys, lungs or intestines, but when this does happen it’s unusual for halitosis to be the only symptom.
Chronic Diseases and Halitosis: Understanding the Connection
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There are numerous causes of bad breath. Many causes are harmless, but some conditions that can cause bad breath can be serious. Causes of bad breath include: Bacteria in the mouth Dry mouth Gum disease Food Smoking and tobacco use Certain medical conditions Sinus condition Gastric reflux (GERD) Diabetes Liver or kidney disease Acute rheumatic fever Lung abscess Blood dyscrasias Uremia Diphtheria, dysentery, measles, pneumonia, scarlet fever, tuberculosis Syphilis Hand-Schuller-Christian disease Scurvy Wegner`s granulomatosis Dry mouth When people are stressed, their mouth often gets dry Alcohol and caffeine — which people may consume when stressed — are diuretics that can contribute to dry mouth Without adequate saliva, bacteria can build up Poor eating When people are stressed, they may eat foods that can cause bad breath (foods high in sugar can cause bad breath) Smoking and tobacco use When people are stressed, they may tend to smoke or use tobacco, which can also cause bad breath and oral health problems Acid reflux Stress can aggravate GERD, which can result in bad breath Bad breath (halitosis) is an embarrassing problem of undesirable odor coming from the mouth. An estimated 65% of Americans have had bad breath and many people are not aware they have it.
Tonsil stones, or tonsilloliths, are hard, sometimes painful bits of bacteria and debris that get stuck in nooks on your tonsils.
The best remedies for bad breath depend on the causes. However, you can take a few steps to treat the problem, or even prevent it.
Parsley is not only a popular garnish but also a natural breath freshener. It contains chlorophyll, which can help neutralize odors and freshen breath.
After you eat, let your food digest before performing physical activity or lying down. This can allow the contents in your stomach to digest while your LES stays closed.
Medications can lead to bad breath for two reasons. In some cases, the way your body breaks down the medicine leads to the production of odorous chemicals. In other cases, medications contribute to dry mouth, which can make bad breath more likely.
4. Hydrate! – Many people suffer from dry mouth, which aggravates bad breath. Whether the dry mouth is the result of a prescription medication side effect or simple dehydration, one important solution is drinking lots of water. Drinking water provides the necessary resources to your salivary glands for the production of saliva. It also helps to flush away dental plaque and food debris.
Tonsil stones are generally not harmful and do not cause any health problems. However, they can cause bad breath and discomfort.
If you have persistent bad breath despite practicing good oral hygiene and making lifestyle changes, it is important to see a doctor. They can help diagnose and treat any underlying medical conditions that may be contributing to halitosis, such as liver disease or diabetes.
When we eat, small food particles can get stuck in between our teeth or on the surface of our tongue. If these particles are not properly removed through brushing and flossing, they can become a breeding ground for bacteria. The bacteria then produce sulfur compounds that give off an unpleasant odor.
Brush your teeth at least twice a day, every day, for at least two minutes. And don’t forget to floss between your teeth every night before bed to clean out all that bacteria that leads to bad breath!
1. Fluoride: Fluoride is a mineral that helps strengthen teeth and prevent cavities. It is an important ingredient to look for in a toothpaste, as cavities can contribute to bad breath.
Tonsil stones are risk-free buildup that will go away on their own. However, the duration of tonsil stones can vary from person to person. They may go away or melt on their own in a short period, or they can also stay for weeks if they are deep in the throat and bacteria continue to grow on them. Besides, if proper oral hygiene is not performed, it may last for years and lead to a more serious problem, such as tonsillitis.
You get tonsil stones when deposits of bacteria sit inside your tonsils for a long time. It turns into this crystalized white or yellow rock. There is a chance you have actually accidentally bitten one. The Trick to Treating Your Teeth Right: Halloween Dental Do’s and Don’ts Mindful Eating for Healthy Teeth: World Food Day and Your Dental Wellness World Smile Day Special: Affordable Teeth Whitening Options in Gilbert International Coffee Day Recovery Plan: Your Dentist’s Recommendations Smile Makeovers: Transforming Your Smile with Cosmetic Dentistry in Chandler
Certain medical conditions can also contribute to halitosis. These include respiratory infections, sinusitis, diabetes, liver disease, and kidney disease. In these cases, treating the underlying condition is necessary to alleviate bad breath.