Halitosis caused by intraoral factors results from changes that occur within the mouth and is responsible for the majority of cases of bad breath. The following are the most common intraoral causes of halitosis:
In addition to poor oral hygiene and dietary factors, certain medical conditions can also cause bad breath. Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, reduces saliva production, which leads to an increase in bacteria in the mouth. Sinus infections and respiratory conditions can also contribute to bad breath due to the presence of mucus and bacteria in the nasal passages.
.
When someone struggles with chronic bad breath, it causes emotional distress. When you are aware that you have bad breath, you are likely to struggle with confidence and avoid close conversations, exuberant laughter, and intimate encounters. People with self-consciousness regarding bad breath shy away from social interactions to spare themselves embarrassment.
Foods to Avoid for Fresher Breath
Freshen Up Your Breath with These Simple DIY Remedies
Bad breath can be a side effect of diabetes. Because the body might have a hard time processing sugars for energy, the body can try to break down more fats, which leads to the production of ketones. The smell is similar to eating a low-carb diet, but unlike a low carb diet, diabetes is likely to lead to a toxic buildup of ketones if not properly treated.
Gum disease is an infection of the area between your teeth and gums. As the pockets of bacteria grow deeper, anaerobic bacteria flourish. These bacteria “breathe” sulphur instead of oxygen, and produce smelly byproducts. The odor is like rotten eggs or may even be corpselike.
Maintaining a healthy diet and exercising regularly can improve overall health and reduce the risk of certain medical conditions that can cause bad breath. Taking steps to manage stress and get enough sleep can also contribute to better oral health and fresher breath.
As stated above, tonsils have many gaps, pits, and crevices known as tonsillar crypts. They trap viruses, bacteria, fungi, and other germs and make the immune system fight infections. Sometimes, crevices can add debris such as bacteria, food, and dead cells, leading to calcium build-up forming the stones.
Alcoholics are some of the most common people to suffer from bad breath, including a number of health problems which adversely affects their digestive systems. When alcohol is consumed, it passes directly into the bloodstream through the small intestine and lining of your stomach.
Coconut oil is commonly used for oil pulling due to its antimicrobial properties. Swishing coconut oil in the mouth for 10-15 minutes can help kill bacteria and freshen breath. It is important to note that oil pulling should not replace regular oral hygiene practices but can be used as a supplement to maintain good oral health.
1. Removes bacteria: The surface of the tongue can harbor bacteria that contribute to bad breath. Tongue scrapers can effectively remove this bacteria, reducing the odor in your mouth.
A dentist can assess your oral health and identify any underlying issues that may be causing bad breath. They may recommend professional cleanings, treatment for gum disease, or further evaluation for any potential oral health problems.
Certain medications can have a negative impact on oral health and breath. As mentioned earlier, some medications can cause dry mouth, which can lead to bad breath. Additionally, certain medications can cause changes in taste or odor in the mouth, resulting in unpleasant breath.
Antibiotics may be prescribed in cases where tonsil stones are accompanied by an infection. Antibiotics can help kill the bacteria causing the infection and reduce inflammation in the tonsils.
Controlling periodontal disease and maintaining good oral health helps to reduce bad breath. If you have constant bad breath, make a list of the foods you eat and any medications you take. Some medications may contribute to bad breath.
Speaking of what causes bad breath, you might actually find some of them surprising.