Halitosis is the medical terminology for bad breath. It can be due to multiple physiological or psychological causes. The most common cases of halitosis occur due to certain ingredients in the food that have a strong smell. These ingredients include garlic, onion, cheese, alcohol, etc. Bad breath caused by these substances is short-lasting and can be lessened by employing various techniques. However, bad breath caused by any physiological abnormality or psychological reason can be long-lasting and affects your social life if it persists consistently.
One natural remedy is saltwater gargles. Gargling with warm saltwater can help reduce inflammation and kill bacteria in the mouth and throat. This can help alleviate symptoms and prevent the formation of tonsil stones.
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One the most common causes of bad breath is food buildup in your mouth. Whenever you eat, tiny particles of food can stick to your teeth and sometimes become lodged between them. This can cause bacteria to build up inside your mouth and emit an unpleasant odor. Now you know why your coworkers make that face when you greet them in the morning.
When you experience heartburn or acid reflux, acid and some undigested food from the stomach can flow back up the esophagus, sometimes into the mouth. The combination of partially or undigested food and acid washing back into the mouth can lead to bad breath.
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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.
Gargling with salt water can help dislodge tonsil stones and reduce inflammation in the tonsils. Mix a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and gargle for 30 seconds before spitting it out.
Certain bacteria on the back of the tongue can interact with amino acids in foods and make smelly sulfur compounds.
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.
Many people do brush and floss consistently, but their techniques are incorrect. This means that even though they are going through the motions, they are leaving plaque on the teeth. Others do not maintain a consistent routine of brushing and flossing every single day. Obviously, this also allows plaque to remain on the teeth.
Some recommended toothpastes for fighting halitosis include Colgate Total Advanced Fresh + Whitening Toothpaste, Crest Pro-Health Advanced Deep Clean Toothpaste, and Sensodyne Pronamel Fresh Breath Enamel Toothpaste. These toothpastes contain a combination of fluoride, antimicrobial agents, tartar control ingredients, and freshening agents to combat bad breath.
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You can tell you have tonsil stones if you can see the white deposits trapped in the crevices of your tonsils. Other times, you might notice them when they come out, “appearing” suddenly in your throat or mouth. They are usually white and can be soft and/or gritty.
There are various treatment options available for halitosis, depending on the underlying cause. For cases related to poor oral hygiene, maintaining a regular oral care routine and visiting the dentist regularly can help alleviate bad breath. For diet-related bad breath, making dietary changes and practicing good oral hygiene can be effective. In cases where bad breath is caused by an underlying medical condition, it is important to seek medical advice and follow the recommended treatment plan.
Doctors may recommend antibiotics. It helps lower the bacteria count, leading to tonsil stones development. However, the biofilms or hardened structures of the stones can resist antibiotics.
Know how you can contact your healthcare provider if you have questions, especially after office hours or on weekends. Online Medical Reviewer: Jessica Gotwals RN BSN MPH © 2000-2023 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions. Find a location Find a provider Make an appointment Login to MyChart patient portal Refer a patient Diseases and Conditions Bad Breath (Halitosis) StayWell Disclaimer | Manage Cookie Preferences | Do Not Sell My Personal Information Online Privacy Statement Policies and Notices Copyright And Healthcare Disclaimer Website Terms And Conditions Of Use Halitosis Can Be a Symptom of a Serious Disease Home Blog Halitosis Can Be A Symptom Of A Serious Disease
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