Mouthwash can be an effective tool in treating bad breath. There are different types of mouthwash available, including antiseptic mouthwashes that kill bacteria, fluoride mouthwashes that strengthen tooth enamel, and cosmetic mouthwashes that temporarily mask bad breath.
Here are characteristic bad breath odors associated with some of these illnesses:
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At the visit, write down the name of a new diagnosis, and any new medicines, treatments, or tests. Also write down any new directions your provider gives you.
Sometimes, it’s not any individual meal you’re eating. It’s the combination of your diet as a whole. While it’s good to give up sugar, many people want to go further and eliminate most carbs from their diet. This drives the body to burn other sources of energy, such as fats and proteins. The byproduct of this is ketones, which have a sweet, fruity odor.
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.
- Green tea: Green tea contains polyphenols, which have antimicrobial properties that can kill bacteria in the mouth.
If you or others notice this type of bad breath, it’s important to talk to a doctor right away.
2. Tea tree oil: Tea tree oil has powerful antimicrobial properties that can kill bacteria that cause bad breath. You can add a few drops of tea tree oil to water and use it as a mouthwash or add it to your toothpaste.
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.
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Apple cider vinegar is another natural remedy that can help freshen breath. It has antimicrobial properties that can help kill the bacteria responsible for bad breath.
5. Use a Mouthwash – Many mouthwashes on the market today target bad breath with ingredients like cetyl pyridinium chloride, activated chlorine dioxide, and zinc. The important thing to understand about mouthwash is that you must avoid those containing alcohol. It does not kill bacteria in the mouth, and actually worsens the situation by drying out the mouth.
Saliva helps to control the levels of bacteria in your mouth. When your body doesn’t produce enough saliva, odor-causing bacteria can thrive.
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Halitosis: An unpleasant odor from the mouth, commonly referred to as bad breath. Halitosis can be caused by the consumption of certain foods, poor oral hygiene, alcohol or tobacco use, dry mouth, or by certain chronic medical conditions. Drug Categories Drugs & Medications Pill Identification Tool Vitamins, Herbs, & Dietary Supplements Dictionary RxList About Us Consumer Contact RxList Terms of Use Privacy Policy Sponsor Policy
Halitosis, or bad breath, can have a significant impact on oral health and social interactions. It is caused by a variety of factors, including poor oral hygiene, gum disease, and certain medical conditions. Maintaining good oral hygiene, using mouthwash, and incorporating natural remedies can help prevent and treat bad breath.