Everyone knows how embarrassing bad breath can be. It can even cause anxiety because you can’t always tell what other people are noticing. There are countless products out there aimed at fixing the problem. Gum, mints, mouthwash, and other products can be found in any store. Approximately 30% of the population complains of some sort of bad breath. But what causes bad breath, and how can you avoid it? Most problems can be solved by keeping your mouth and teeth clean is a simple solution. However, sometimes bad breath is an indication of a more serious health condition, and you’ll need to talk to one of the doctors at Scott Edwards DDS.
The bad breath caused by certain foods is easily remedied by altering the diet. You can maintain a perfectly healthy diet while avoiding particularly smelly foods. Some studies even show that diets high in dairy products can cause bad odors in the mouth. If you are unsure which food is responsible for your bad breath, these are the top ones to avoid:
.
Dr. Birch and his team were great! I had a really good overall experience at Premier Family Dental Care. They were... courteous, caring, and thorough. Chloe and Mackenzie do a wonderful job at the front desk, Christian was patient and made me feel comfortable with the x-ray process, and Stacey is an excellent dental hygienist. From the time I called to make an initial appointment for check-up/x-rays to the second appointment for cleaning, they were all top-notch. I would highly recommend Dr. Birch for those considering a dentist in the East Valley. He is knowledgeable, professional and listens to you!read more
Using mouthwash, gum, and mints will only cover up the problem. In most cases, following a proper dental hygiene routine will improve bad breath. If at-home care doesn't solve the problem, contact your dentist and schedule an appointment for a proper evaluation.
Small tonsil stones may not cause any symptoms that you’d notice. Even when they’re large, some tonsil stones are found only after X-rays or CT scans. Symptoms include:
Saliva helps to control the levels of bacteria in your mouth. When your body doesn’t produce enough saliva, odor-causing bacteria can thrive.
Halitosis is caused by oral bacteria trapped in your mouth for an extended time. The key to dealing with it is treating the root of the problem – removing the source of the odor. Most over-the-counter remedies such as mouthwash, mints and gum only mask the problem.
These compounds are given off when food and bacteria accumulate in the furrows at the back of the tongue. The good news is that this can be temporary, as a result of eating garlic or raw onions, drinking coffee or smoking cigarettes. But in three quarters of cases some kind of dental problem is found alongside the halitosis. The patients might have gums which are swollen, sore or infected or be suffering from a coating on the tongue.
GERD is a common medical condition that can cause bad breath from the throat. The stomach acid that travels up the esophagus can reach the back of the throat, leaving a sour taste and foul odor. Treating GERD through lifestyle changes and medication can help alleviate bad breath.
If you suspect that your bad breath is caused by sinus issues or allergies, it is important to see a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. They may recommend nasal sprays, antihistamines, or other medications to help alleviate your symptoms and improve your breath.
It has about 1 million cases annually in India, and you should get checked for tonsil stones. It can lead to bad breath and sore throat, making it difficult to swallow food. Tonsil stones in throat are mainly found in teenagers.
It is necessary to understand the cause of halitosis to initiate treatment. Certain diseases that might present with similar features as halitosis include dehydration, diabetes mellitus, liver failure, kidney failure, bronchi or lung infection, tuberculosis, or internal bleeding.
Why Flossing is Crucial for Oral Health and Fresh Breath
Other medical conditions that can cause bad breath include gastrointestinal issues like acid reflux or liver disease. These conditions can cause stomach acids or toxins to be released into the mouth, resulting in an unpleasant odor.
Eating a balanced diet that is rich in fruits and vegetables promotes good oral health. Avoiding foods that are known to cause bad breath, such as garlic and onions, can also be beneficial. Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps prevent dry mouth and reduces the risk of bad breath.
Probiotics can be consumed through supplements or certain foods like yogurt and kefir. Including these foods in your diet can help promote a healthy oral microbiome and reduce bad breath.
Diet plays a significant role in the development of bad breath. Certain foods, such as garlic and onions, contain sulfur compounds that can be absorbed into the bloodstream and released through the lungs, resulting in bad breath. Other foods, such as coffee and alcohol, can also contribute to bad breath by drying out the mouth.