Along with bad breath, other symptoms of tonsilloliths are ear pain, swollen tonsils, an accumulation of white-colored debris, as well as trouble swallowing.
Psychogenic halitosis generally has no apparent cause. In this case, the person constantly feels lousy breath coming from their mouth, but another person or any diagnostic test does not detect it. This type can also be associated with other psychologic abnormalities.
.
The tonsils are lymph nodes located at the back of the throat. Tonsil stones (also called tonsilloliths or tonsil calculi) are small clusters of calcifications or stones that form in the craters (crypts) of the tonsils. Tonsil stones are hard and appear as white or yellowish formations on the tonsils. They usually smell bad (and make your breath smell bad) due to bacteria.
Most of the time, the most effective way to treat bad breath is by practicing good oral hygiene.
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.
You may be wondering what halitosis is. Halitosis refers to the presence of foul-smelling odors originating from the mouth, which can occur occasionally or persistently. The cause of this unpleasant and smelly breath is often attributed to the presence of bacteria on the tongue or in the crevices around the gums. When these bacteria break down, they release volatile sulphur compounds (VSCs), which produce the unpleasant smell in the mouth. The primary VSC responsible for halitosis is hydrogen sulphide, which is typically found at the back of the tongue.
If your bad breath smells like ammonia, it could be a sign that you may have kidney disease. The kidneys filter out and remove waste and toxins – such as urea, which breaks down into ammonia – from the body through urination. Kidneys also regulate blood pressure and control red blood cell production.
Halitosis can often be the result of tooth decay and gum disease. Gingivitis and periodontal disease can create cavities or pockets around the gums, giving bacteria a place to hide and multiply. This bacteria can produce foul-smelling breath which short-term freshening methods only mask.
Problems with these senses have a big impact on our lives. Smell and taste contribute to our enjoyment of life by stimulating a desire to eat which not only nourishes our bodies, but also enhances our social activities. When smell and taste become impaired, we eat poorly, socialize less, and feel worse. Smell and taste warn us of dangers, such as fire, poisonous fumes, and spoiled food. Loss of the sense of smell may indicate sinus disease, growths in the nasal passages, or, at times, brain tumors.
Brushing helps remove plaque and bacteria from the teeth and gums, while flossing helps remove food particles and bacteria from between the teeth. Using a tongue scraper can help remove the bacteria that can accumulate on the surface of the tongue and contribute to bad breath.
Sure, I went in experiencing tooth pain, yes the dentist did attempt to help me. What makes me the most upset is that... he had decided to grind down several of my teeth attempting to relieve "pressure" that MIGHT have been causing some additional pain around that tooth. Now, just think about that for a second.... That is the worst Dental experience I have ever sat through in my life. Why would a dentist alter multiple teeth to fix one problem. Now I have a thin void between my side molars FOR LIFE!!! Honestly, he is a complete moron, and I would never return to this office again! Dental patients; beware of the the actions your dentist takes!read more
At the visit, write down the name of a new diagnosis, and any new medicines, treatments, or tests. Also write down any new directions your provider gives you.
Learn the connection between your appearance and health. Discover what you can do about embarrassing beauty problems from facial hair to razor bumps. Health Categories Medical Slideshows Diseases & Conditions Procedures & Tests Medications Healthy Living Image Collection Quizzes MedicineNet Privacy Policy About Us Contact Us
Laser tonsil cryptolysis: In this procedure, a laser is used to remove the crypts where the stone has been lodged. Local anesthesia is given to perform this procedure. The recovery time for this procedure is minimal.
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.
In many cases, tonsil stones do not cause any symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they may include: Persistent bad breath (halitosis) White or yellow formations on the tonsil Sore throat Difficulty swallowing Ear pain Swollen tonsils The sensation of a foreign object lodged in the back of the throat/choking feeling Cough Chronic tonsil inflammation/infection If symptoms of tonsil stones are severe, you may see an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist, also called an otolaryngologist.
My family recently moved to Gilbert, Arizona. This office staff and dentist made me feel comfortable, answered all my... question, offered insight and gave a thorough and extensive cleaning, X-rays and exam. Very competent and professional. I’m pleased to have found my new dentist and staff!read more