Bad breath, also known as halitosis, can result from poor dental health habits and can be made worse by the types of foods you eat. The most common cause of halitosis is inadequate dental hygiene. If particles of food are left in the mouth, their breakdown by bacteria produces sulfur compounds. If regular brushing, flossing and hydration doesn’t solve it, the best solution is to see your dentist for a deep cleaning.
Let’s break down the ways of how to get rid of bad breath. The initial and crucial step to finding a treatment for bad breath is to consult a specialist who can identify the root cause of the issue and recommend the appropriate halitosis treatment.If the halitosis is caused by factors outside of the mouth, a general practitioner or specialist should be consulted to remedy the underlying cause and alleviate the bad breath. However, for most cases of intra-oral halitosis, a dentist will be the specialist who will evaluate and remedy the bad breath problem. The following are some suggestions for eliminating bad breath caused by intra-oral factors:
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1. Peppermint oil: Peppermint oil has a refreshing scent and can help freshen breath. It has antimicrobial properties that can kill bacteria in the mouth. You can add a few drops of peppermint oil to water and use it as a mouthwash or add it to your toothpaste.
If you are diabetic, visiting your dentist regularly will ensure any concerns are dealt with promptly and early signs of DKA or gum disease are caught before they can progress.
If you have large tonsil stones or are experiencing severe symptoms, your doctor may recommend surgical removal of the tonsils. This is a last resort treatment option and is only recommended in severe cases.
Halitosis, or bad breath affects an estimated 65% of Americans. Over 40 million Americans have "chronic halitosis," which is persistent bad breath. 90% of all halitosis is of oral, not systemic, origin.
Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth may be a warning sign of gum (periodontal) disease. Gum disease is caused by the buildup of plaque on teeth. Bacteria cause toxins to form, which irritate the gums. If gum disease continues untreated, it can damage the gums and jawbone.
Certain medical conditions can also cause bad breath from the throat. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a condition where stomach acid travels up the esophagus, causing heartburn and other symptoms. This acid reflux can also lead to bad breath as the stomach acid reaches the throat.
Gastrointestinal problems, such as constipation or bowel obstruction, can also lead to bad breath. When waste products build up in the digestive system, they can produce foul-smelling gases that are released through the mouth.
The most common cause of chronic severe bad breath is a dental infection. We do not mean a simple overgrowth of oral bacteria due to a buildup of plaque. That is what we discussed in the previous section. We mean an active dental disease, like decay (cavities) or gum disease.
Tonsil stones can come out in a cough. Persistent coughing may help in losing some of the stones.
Why Flossing is Crucial for Oral Health and Fresh Breath
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.
To do oil pulling, simply take a tablespoon of oil (such as coconut oil or sesame oil) and swish it around in your mouth for 10-15 minutes. Make sure to move the oil around all areas of your mouth, including between your teeth and along your gums. Afterward, spit out the oil and rinse your mouth with water. Repeat this process daily for best results.
Diet can play a role in the formation of tonsil stones and bad breath. Certain foods can contribute to the accumulation of debris in the tonsils, while others can help prevent bacterial overgrowth and reduce bad breath.
Sinus infection (sinusitis) symptoms can include headaches, a sore throat, and toothaches. Antibiotics and home remedies can relieve sinus infection symptoms.
Cinnamon has natural antibacterial properties and a pleasant aroma that can help freshen breath. Chewing cinnamon gum stimulates saliva production, which can help wash away bacteria and food particles in the mouth.