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Gum disease – also called gingivitis – is very common among adults. Gingivitis is caused by an inflammation of the gums due to plaque and bacteria buildup. It is important to follow good oral hygiene habits – like brushing and flossing every day – to prevent gum disease and tooth decay.
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You may be wondering what halitosis is. Halitosis refers to the presence of foul-smelling odors originating from the mouth, which can occur occasionally or persistently. The cause of this unpleasant and smelly breath is often attributed to the presence of bacteria on the tongue or in the crevices around the gums. When these bacteria break down, they release volatile sulphur compounds (VSCs), which produce the unpleasant smell in the mouth. The primary VSC responsible for halitosis is hydrogen sulphide, which is typically found at the back of the tongue.
Mouthwash can be an effective tool in combating halitosis. It can help kill bacteria in the mouth and freshen breath. When choosing a mouthwash, it is important to look for one that contains antimicrobial ingredients, such as chlorhexidine or cetylpyridinium chloride.
- Coffee and alcohol: These beverages can cause dry mouth, which can worsen bad breath.
There are several factors that can contribute to bad breath. One of the most common causes is poor oral hygiene. When we don't brush and floss regularly, food particles can get stuck in between our teeth and gums, leading to the growth of bacteria. These bacteria release sulfur compounds that give off an unpleasant odor.
Bad breath from the throat can be embarrassing and affect one's confidence in social situations. Understanding the causes and taking steps to prevent and treat bad breath from the throat is essential for improving overall health and well-being.
Tonsil stones are small formations that develop in pockets within the tonsils. When you look in your mouth, you may see the white or yellow formations that are causing your breath to change for the worse. Tonsil stones are not growths. They typically don’t pose a health concern. They are more of a nuisance that can create mild discomfort depending on size (stones can range from the size of a grain of rice to a grape).
The main symptom of bad breath is an unpleasant or foul smell emanating from the mouth.
In case the foul smell is caused due to poor oral hygiene or eating certain food items, it can be termed as manageable. Brushing twice a day and using floss, and interdental cleaner, to clean food particles, plaque, and other debris from various parts of the mouth can help. Such patients should ensure they do not sleep with dentures in their mouth and use antibacterial mouthwash along with regular brushing before wearing the dentures back in the morning. The patient needs to stop chewing tobacco and smoking cigarettes as well. Most importantly, cracked, infected teeth and gum diseases should be treated quickly.
Even if you cannot brush your teeth right after every meal, drinking water should help clear away leftover food particles. This will result in less bacteria buildup, in turn preventing bad breath from occurring. It is better to drink water after meals rather than sugary drinks, as sugar exacerbates the buildup of bacteria.
2. Prevents gum disease: Gum disease is a common cause of bad breath. Flossing helps remove plaque from along the gumline, reducing the risk of gum disease and associated bad breath.
To keep saliva flowing and rinsing your mouth naturally, eat healthy, fibrous foods such as carrots, apples, and celery. Not only will the chewing action increase saliva production, the fibers will also act as a natural toothbrush, cleaning your teeth as you eat.
Dietary changes, staying hydrated, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are also important in preventing bad breath. Tongue scraping and other oral care practices can help remove bacteria and debris from the mouth. If bad breath persists despite practicing good oral hygiene and making lifestyle changes, it is important to seek professional treatment.
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To remove your tonsil stones, use a tonsil stone pick or water flosser on a very low setting, but never put too much pressure on your tonsils, even if you cannot get the stone out. Check out my article on the best tonsil stone removal tools.
Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial in preventing bad breath. Brushing your teeth at least twice a day helps remove plaque and food particles from the surfaces of your teeth. It's important to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to effectively clean your teeth without causing damage to your gums.