Large cavities and progressive gum disease both provide perfect hiding spots for large collections of bacteria. As cavities worsen, bacteria accumulate in actual holes in the teeth. When gum disease progresses, deep pockets develop between the tooth’s roots and the surrounding gum and jawbone. The deep pockets are breeding grounds for bacteria that become more dangerous as the pocket deepens.
Chronic acid reflux – a digestive disorder, also known as GERD, is a condition that affects lower esophageal sphincter, the ring of muscle between stomach and esophagus. A burning sensation in the chest (heartburn), chest pain, difficulty swallowing and regurgitation of food in the mouth are the most common symptoms of GERD. Risk factors include pregnancy, obesity, smoking, eating certain foods etc. The influx of acids and other partially digested particles into the esophagus and mouth cavity can lead to halitosis.
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Smoking is a bad habit any way you slice it, but one thing it’s fairly well known for is causing halitosis, or “smoker’s breath.” Smoke particles can linger in the throat and lungs for hours, giving your breath a stale scent. The chemicals in tobacco smoke also remain in the mouth, leading to a whole host of secondary causes of bad breath. As mentioned briefly above, tobacco can lead to chronic bad breath by drying out the tongue and gums, leaving a chemical-filmed environment where oral bacteria can run amok. Giving up smoking is good for your body in many ways. Forget better breath – you’ll have a better quality of life!
Bad breath can happen to anyone. The American Dental Association reports that about half of adults in the US have or will have to deal with bad breath at some point in their lifetimes.
Treatment Options for Halitosis: Finding the Right Solution for You
As dentists, we are your best resource for addressing the problem of bad breath. We are in the perfect position to recognize, discuss, and treat this particular problem. Bad breath is complex in that it has both emotional and physical repercussions. We hear the distressing emotional consequences of bad breath in our confidential conversations with patients, and we see the negative health implications inherent in severe bad breath.
Smoking or chewing tobacco-based products also can cause bad breath, stain teeth, reduce your ability to taste foods, and irritate your gums.
Baking soda is a versatile ingredient that can be used for various purposes, including freshening breath. It helps to neutralize odors and can help remove plaque and stains from the teeth.
- Green tea: Green tea contains polyphenols, which have antimicrobial properties that can kill bacteria in the mouth.
If your are suffering from gingivitis, a bad breath will definitely be one of the signs you are suffering from. This is caused by bacterial build up between your teeth and the gums. A good oral cleaning from your dental practice is the best treatment.
It is not a dangerous condition, and one can get rid of it by using some home remedies. However, it may require antibiotics and surgery in some cases.
Our body’s ability to sense chemicals is another chemosensory mechanism that contributes to our senses of smell and taste. In this system, thousands of free nerve endings especially on the moist surfaces of the eyes, nose, mouth, and throat identify sensations like the sting of ammonia, the coolness of menthol, and the heat of chili peppers.
If you have dentures, take them out at night. Clean them completely before putting them back in your mouth. Talk with your dentist before using deodorizing sprays or tablets. Some only mask the odor for a short time.
The condition needs urgent medical attention as it can also be one of the symptoms of salivary glands-related diseases.
In addition to masking bad breath, chewing sugar-free gum helps protect your teeth and gums between meals. Teeth are more at risk of an acid attack directly after you’ve eaten. Chewing gum after a meal helps reduce acid and the harm it may cause to your teeth. It prompts the mouth to produce more saliva, which is the mouth’s natural defense against acid.
Alcohol is pretty drying, which is why people often feel as if they need to drink a gallon (or two) of water after a night out. The drying effects of alcohol can also contribute to bad breath.
Halitosis: An unpleasant odor from the mouth, commonly referred to as bad breath. Halitosis can be caused by the consumption of certain foods, poor oral hygiene, alcohol or tobacco use, dry mouth, or by certain chronic medical conditions. Drug Categories Drugs & Medications Pill Identification Tool Vitamins, Herbs, & Dietary Supplements Dictionary RxList About Us Consumer Contact RxList Terms of Use Privacy Policy Sponsor Policy