Certain foods and drinks can also contribute to bad breath. Foods like garlic and onions contain volatile compounds that are absorbed into the bloodstream and carried to the lungs, where they are exhaled. Similarly, drinks like coffee and alcohol can leave a lingering odor in the mouth.
Bad breath may be a symptom of any of the following conditions. See your healthcare provider for a diagnosis.
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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.
Recognizing halitosis itself is not difficult, because this affliction gives us symptoms in the form of an unpleasant odor released from the mouth. So, in order to determine whether you suffer from halitosis, it is enough to perform the so-called “smell test”. This can be done, for example, by inhaling the smell of the toothbrush we use to brush our teeth, or by touching the back of our tongue with our fingers and then checking their smell.
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.
Dr. Nguyen has served on the Virginia Board of Dentistry and has many achievements such as: Invisalign Premier and Teen Provider, Pre-Fellow with Academy of General Dentistry, Graduate of Aesthetic Continuum, Engel Institute for Dental Implant Training, WaveOne Endodontic Training, HD President’s Club.
Your diet can play a significant role in preventing bad breath. Certain foods and drinks can contribute to bad breath, while others can help freshen your breath. Here are some foods and drinks to be aware of:
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Crevices, tunnels, and pits, also known as tonsil crypts, make up your tonsils. Debris of dead cells, mucus, saliva, and food can get in there and get stuck. They build up over there, which is later fed on by bacteria and fungi, which further causes a bad smell.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease, otherwise known as acid reflux or heartburn, is a condition in which the contents of the stomach flow backward into the esophagus. The undigested food, bile, and stomach acids coming back into the esophagus can cause pain and discomfort and may lead to bad breath.
People who suffer from bad breath want to know how to get rid of bad breath. Some examples of measures an individual can do to prevent or get rid of bad breath include the following: Specific medical treatment to cure bad breath depends upon the cause.In patients who suffer from dry mouth (xerostomia), artificial saliva may be prescribed by a dentist.Dentists can also prescribe special toothpaste and mouthwash that can improve the symptoms of bad breath. Follow all instructions provided by the dental or medical professional, and use any prescribed mouthwash or toothpaste as directed.If the patient's dentist determines that the bad breath odor is not of oral origin, the patient may be referred to a physician.If the odor is due to gum disease, the dentist may refer the patient to a periodontist, who specializes in treating gum conditions.
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The Importance of Regular Dental Checkups for Fresher Breath
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The commonalities between these causes are that the salivary glands are negatively affected, inhibiting the production of saliva. Saliva keeps the mouth moist and washes away any food particles or bacteria from the surface of the teeth. Without the presence of saliva, bacteria or food stays on the surface of the teeth and can start to produce an odour.
Tonsil stones may be a warning sign that you have high levels of bacteria in your mouth and need to improve your oral hygiene or adjust your diet.
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