I have covered this topic extensively on my blog, but here are a few quick tips to get you started.
What is halitosis and what causes it?
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If you suffer from chronic bad breath, you don’t have to live your life worrying about making a bad impression. At Scott Edwards DDS, we’re committed to helping you use your smile to get the most out of life. We can help determine the cause of bad breath, and what kind of treatment you might need. If bad breath is a sign of a more serious health problem, we’ll help you determine the best next steps and either begin a treatment plan or recommend a specialist who can provide treatment.
During a physical examination, a healthcare professional may use a tongue depressor and a light to examine the back of the throat for the presence of tonsil stones. They may also gently palpate the neck to check for swollen lymph nodes.
Drinking green tea can also help prevent tonsil stones and bad breath. Green tea contains polyphenols, which have antimicrobial properties that can help kill bacteria in the mouth.
You can tell you have tonsil stones if you can see the white deposits trapped in the crevices of your tonsils. Other times, you might notice them when they come out, “appearing” suddenly in your throat or mouth. They are usually white and can be soft and/or gritty.
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.
Bad breath, medically called halitosis, can result from poor dental health habits and may be a sign of other health problems. Bad breath can also be made worse by the types of foods you eat and other unhealthy lifestyle habits. You can take steps to prevent and treat halitosis, at home and with the help of your dentist or doctor.
When to see a dentist or doctor about bad breath
Tongue scraping is a practice that involves using a tongue scraper to remove bacteria and debris from the surface of the tongue. The tongue harbors a significant amount of bacteria, which can contribute to bad breath. Tongue scraping helps remove this bacteria and can improve breath odor.
In some cases, bad breath may be a symptom of an underlying medical condition. Conditions such as gum disease, sinus infections, respiratory infections, and acid reflux can all cause bad breath. If you have persistent bad breath despite practicing good oral hygiene, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying health issues.
Halitosis is the condition of having a bad breath. Some common causes of bad breath are-
Manual tonsil stone removal at home is generally not recommended. Tonsils are delicate tissues, and removing them on your own may cause bleeding and infection. Salt-water gargle: This may help dislodge tonsil stones and get rid of the odor and bad breath they cause. Coughing: Tonsil stones are often coughed up inadvertently. In some cases, a hard cough may help dislodge them. Oral irrigation: Oral irrigators can sometimes be used to gently shoot water into the back of the mouth in an attempt to dislodge the tonsil stones. Follow instructions and use caution because it is possible to injure the tonsils if it is not done gently. Tonsil stones may dislodge or dissolve on their own in a short time. Tonsil stones may last for weeks if bacteria continue to grow on the tonsils due to tonsil stones deep in the throat. If tonsil stones are ignored and left in place without lifestyle changes, they may last for years. The only surefire way to cure tonsil stones and prevent any recurrence is to have the tonsils removed (tonsillectomy). Maintain good oral hygiene: Brush and floss regularly; consider using a tongue scraper to remove bacteria. Gargle regularly with mouthwash or saltwater solution. Drink plenty of water. Quit smoking. Avoid excess alcohol. Reduce consumption of carbonated beverages such as sodas. Treat sinus infections or allergy symptoms promptly. Limit dairy products. American Academy of Otolaryngology. Tonsils and Adenoids. 2019. October 2019. Busaba, Nicholas and Shira Doron. Tonsillectomy in adults: Indications. Sept. 24, 2019. October 2019.
The team from the BBC TV series 'Trust me I’m a doctor' spoke to dentists about how to spot and avoid bad breath. Watch the video below for their tips: All content within this column is provided for general information only, and should not be treated as a substitute for the medical advice of your own doctor or any other health care professional. The BBC is not responsible or liable for any diagnosis made by a user based on the content of this site. The BBC is not liable for the contents of any external internet sites listed, nor does it endorse any commercial product or service mentioned or advised on any of the sites. Always consult your own GP if you're in any way concerned about your health.
The impact of bad breath goes beyond just the physical symptoms. It can also have a significant impact on mental health and self-esteem. People with halitosis may feel self-conscious and avoid social interactions or intimate relationships due to fear of judgment or embarrassment. This can lead to feelings of isolation and low self-esteem.
Lemon water is not only refreshing but also has natural antibacterial properties that can help combat bad breath. The citric acid in lemons helps to stimulate saliva production, which can help to wash away bacteria and food particles in the mouth.
- Yogurt: Yogurt contains probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that can help balance the oral microbiome and reduce bad breath.