The medical condition dry mouth (also called xerostomia) also can cause bad breath. Saliva is necessary to moisten the mouth, neutralize acids produced by plaque, and wash away dead cells that build up on the tongue, gums, and cheeks. If not removed, these cells decompose and can cause bad breath. Dry mouth may be a side effect of various medications, salivary gland problems, or continuous breathing through the mouth. In fact, morning breath is worse for people who sleep with their mouths open.
Fennel seedsClovesCardamomCinnamonGrated gingerSpearmintPeppermintParsleyRosemaryThyme10 Ways To Fight Bad Breath
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Medications can lead to bad breath for two reasons. In some cases, the way your body breaks down the medicine leads to the production of odorous chemicals. In other cases, medications contribute to dry mouth, which can make bad breath more likely.
Your diet can play a significant role in preventing bad breath. Certain foods and drinks can contribute to bad breath, while others can help freshen your breath. Here are some foods and drinks to be aware of:
Other dental causes of bad breath include poorly fitting dental appliances, yeast infections of the mouth, and cavities.
Visit your dentist on a regular basis. Regular checkups can find problems, such as gum disease, infections, and dry mouth. If you have bad breath and the dentist can’t find a cause, you may be referred to your primary healthcare provider for more follow-up.
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.
Digestive issues like acid reflux and gastrointestinal problems can also cause bad breath. Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing a burning sensation in the chest and a sour taste in the mouth. This sour taste can contribute to bad breath.
Tonsil stones can last for weeks or even months if left untreated. However, they can be removed at home or by a doctor.
Claudia Hammond analyses the science, the misconceptions – and what you may be doing wrong.
Drinking more water during the day can help, both by rinsing away food and preventing dryness in the mouth.
The Role of Probiotics in Fighting Bad Breath
Diet can play a role in the formation of tonsil stones and bad breath. Certain foods can contribute to the accumulation of debris in the tonsils, while others can help prevent bacterial overgrowth and reduce bad breath.
Most of the time, bad breath can be cured and prevented with proper oral hygiene. It is rarely life-threatening, and the prognosis is good. However, bad breath may be a complication of a medical disorder that needs to be treated. Rosenberg, Mel. "Bad Breath." UpToDate.com. September 2019.
Smoking is a bad habit any way you slice it, but one thing it’s fairly well known for is causing halitosis, or “smoker’s breath.” Smoke particles can linger in the throat and lungs for hours, giving your breath a stale scent. The chemicals in tobacco smoke also remain in the mouth, leading to a whole host of secondary causes of bad breath. As mentioned briefly above, tobacco can lead to chronic bad breath by drying out the tongue and gums, leaving a chemical-filmed environment where oral bacteria can run amok. Giving up smoking is good for your body in many ways. Forget better breath – you’ll have a better quality of life!
A bitter metallic taste, a burning sensation on the tongue, and thick saliva along with a buildup of a white coating on the tongue and around teeth are some of the symptoms of halitosis.
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