In addition to not brushing and flossing regularly, other factors that can contribute to poor oral hygiene and bad breath include smoking, dry mouth, certain medications, and certain medical conditions like gum disease or tooth decay. It’s important to practice good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and regularly visiting a dentist for cleanings and checkups, to maintain fresh breath and a healthy mouth.
Most of the time, the most effective way to treat bad breath is by practicing good oral hygiene.
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If you want to prevent bad breath caused by dry mouth, follow a strict high-level hygiene routine. Brushing and flossing multiple times a day can keep odour causing bacteria levels low, keeping breath fresh. Additionally, avoiding smoking, alcohol, and caffeine can reduce the buildup of bacteria and lingering odours.
Small tonsil stones can be removed at home using a cotton swab or the back of your toothbrush. Gently apply pressure to the tonsil to push the stone out of the crevice.
Many don’t know how their diet can be one of the causes of bad breath. Eating a high-protein, low-carb diet can cause your metabolism to change because protein is harder for your body to digest. They tend to release sulfurous gases when they don’t metabolize. To avoid this, eat a more balanced and nutritious diet full of vegetables and herbs.
Laura Clark is a writer and editor based in Pittsburgh. She's a blogger with Smart News and a senior editor at Pitt magazine. Filed Under: Advertisements, Cool Finds, Health, Marketing Smart News History Science Innovation Arts & Culture Travel At The Smithsonian Podcast Photos Video Smithsonian Institution Smithsonian.com Smithsonian Store Smithsonian Journeys Smithsonian Channel Smithsonian Books Smithsonian Membership About Smithsonian Contact Us Advertising RSS Member Services Sustainability Terms of Use Privacy Statement Cookie Policy Advertising Notice © 2023 Smithsonian Magazine Privacy Statement Cookie Policy Terms of Use Advertising Notice Your Privacy Rights Cookie Settings
There is a strong link between halitosis and gum disease. Gum disease is caused by the buildup of plaque and bacteria along the gumline, leading to inflammation and infection. This can result in bad breath.
“Poor oral hygiene” is our way of saying that someone does not properly clean his or her teeth on a consistent basis. The purpose of oral hygiene (which includes brushing, flossing, and can include using mouthwash) is to remove plaque from the teeth. Dental plaque is the “home” for the bacteria that cause bad breath. These bacteria create a by-product of stinky gases called Volatile Sulfur Compounds or VSCs.
My daughters had to have some extractions done and Dr. Birch was wonderful. I can’t say enough about how patient and... kind he was with them. One daughter had 3 teeth pulled, two of them molars, and he took his time and made sure she was comfortable and not feeling any pain. We have been coming here for over a year now and I am so glad we found this practice. The front staff is friendly and always helpful. I would definitely recommend them.read more
The foods we eat can have a significant impact on our breath. Certain foods, such as garlic, onions, and spicy foods, contain volatile compounds that can be released into the bloodstream and carried to the lungs, resulting in bad breath. These compounds can also be excreted through the pores, further contributing to bad breath.
An upper respiratory infection is a contagious infection of the structures of the upper respiratory tract, which includes the sinuses, nasal passages, pharynx, and larynx. Common causes of an upper respiratory infection include bacteria and viruses such as rhinoviruses, group A streptococci, influenza, respiratory syncytial, whooping cough, diphtheria, and Epstein-Barr. Examples of symptoms of upper respiratory infection include sneezing, sore throat, cough, fever, and nasal congestion. Treatment of upper respiratory infections are based upon the cause. Generally, viral infections are treated symptomatically with over-the-counter (OTC) medication and home remedies.
The complications related to tonsil stones are rare but possible. One of the main issues that it can cause is the deep infection of tonsils, known as an abscess.
Also see a doctor or dentist if bad breath develops after taking a new medication, after recent dental surgery, or if any other symptoms develop that are of concern.
There is a strong link between halitosis and gum disease. Gum disease is caused by the buildup of plaque and bacteria along the gumline, leading to inflammation and infection. This can result in bad breath.
On the way there I did wonder whether this was all a ruse and whether there was something my colleagues were too afraid to tell me. Luckily I was fine, but bad breath is common and we’re not helped by some of the myths surrounding it.
The medical condition dry mouth (also called xerostomia) also can cause bad breath. Saliva is necessary to moisten the mouth, neutralize acids produced by plaque, and wash away dead cells that build up on the tongue, gums, and cheeks. If not removed, these cells decompose and can cause bad breath. Dry mouth may be a side effect of various medications, salivary gland problems, or continuous breathing through the mouth. In fact, morning breath is worse for people who sleep with their mouths open.
Excellent dental office. I have had many dental issues over the years, and consequently all kinds of work. I can... honestly say this is perhaps the best dentist office I have ever been to. Friendly, knowledgeable and tremendously skilled. Would give six stars if possible!read more