There are a few health conditions outside the mouth that can contribute to bad breath. Because dental problems are far more likely to be the culprit, we always rule them out first. If your dentist rules out any dental problems as the source of your bad breath, you then likely need to look outside the mouth.
If your dentist determines that your mouth is healthy and the odor is not of oral origin, you may be referred to your family doctor or to a specialist to determine the odor source and treatment plan. You can go over a list of your medications with them to see if any of them could be adding to the problem. Work with them to keep diabetes, allergies, and other conditions under control.
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Americans spend more than $1 billion a year on over the counter halitosis products, many of which are ineffective because they only mask the problem.
Improperly cleaned dentures can also harbor odor-causing bacteria and food particles. If you wear removable dentures, take them out at night and clean them thoroughly before replacing them.
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Having tonsil stones once might mean you will have to deal with it again in the future. But specific preventive measures can be taken. These steps are:
Rinsing your throat will kill some of the anaerobic bacteria that grow on your tonsil stones and soften the growth.
If you are experiencing chronic bad breath despite practicing good oral hygiene and making lifestyle changes, it is important to see a healthcare professional. They can help identify any underlying medical conditions or medications that may be contributing to your bad breath and recommend appropriate treatment options.
The Role of Diet in Bad Breath: Foods to Avoid and Include
Are you avoiding social meetings or hanging out with friends just because of your breath stink? Bad breath can be not only due to oral hygiene but also tonsil stones.
Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth may be a warning sign of gum (periodontal) disease. Gum disease is caused by the buildup of plaque on teeth. Bacteria cause toxins to form, which irritate the gums. If gum disease continues untreated, it can damage the gums and jawbone.
Replacing these foods with probiotic-rich foods like yogurt and kefir and soft foods like potatoes, pasta, and soups can help your tonsils eliminate the bacteria from your throat.
Many tonsil stones, especially those that don’t have symptoms, don’t need special treatment. It depends on their size and whether they might cause you trouble.
Certain bacteria on the back of the tongue can interact with amino acids in foods and make smelly sulfur compounds.
Dr. Benjamin Greene and Dr. Jonathan Everett at Kirkland Family Dentistry have been providing dental services in Kirkland, Washington for a better part of 25 years and are staunch supporters of effectively eliminating the causes of halitosis rather than aiming to cure them.
If you are taking medications and experiencing chronic bad breath, it is important to speak with your healthcare provider. They may be able to adjust your medication or recommend strategies to alleviate dry mouth and improve your breath.
Bad breath (halitosis) can be caused by a variety of things, including diet, medication, poor oral hygiene, and diseases or conditions such as diabetes, GERD, lactose intolerance, gum disease, and more. Treatment for bad breath depends on the cause.