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
Conclusion: Maintaining Fresh Breath for Optimal Health
.
- Garlic and onions: These foods contain sulfur compounds that can be released in the mouth and contribute to bad breath.
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.
Finding and treating an existing health condition may get rid of the bad breath.
Managing the psychological effects of halitosis involves addressing both the physical symptoms and the emotional impact. Seeking support from friends, family, or a mental health professional can be helpful in managing feelings of self-consciousness and building self-confidence. Additionally, practicing good oral hygiene and seeking treatment for underlying causes of bad breath can help alleviate the physical symptoms and improve overall well-being.
TonsilTamer.com is a participant in several affiliate programs and may be compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies at no additional cost to you.
If you find that your gag reflex is too strong for this method, you may want to use a mouth-numbing spray Chloraseptic before you go in with the swab. I’ve also written about other methods here.
It's wise to brush those gnashers regularly to avoid whiffy breath, even if you're a hippo at London Zoo (Credit: Getty Images)
By practicing good oral hygiene, quitting smoking, and being mindful of foods and beverages that contribute to bad breath, you can reduce the risk of developing throat-related bad breath. Natural remedies and over-the-counter products can provide temporary relief, but if bad breath persists, it is important to seek professional help to address any underlying medical conditions.
Pneumonia – an infection in one of both lungs; it accounts for 16% of all deaths under the age of five. About 920,136 children died in 2015 due to pneumonia[v]. The potentially lethal condition is caused by viruses, bacteria or fungi. Bearing in mind that pneumonia involves air sacs in the lungs that become inflamed they become filled up with pus and phlegm which are odiferous when a patient coughs. Constant coughing takes its toll on the breath. Bad breath can be the reason why you are asking for professional help and getting your pneumonia diagnosed at the same time, increasing your chances of survival by the minute.
Halitosis vs. normal bad breath: What's the difference?
No, halitosis is not contagious. Since halitosis is caused by bacteria in the mouth, it should not be passed from person to person.
It is also important to choose a mouthwash that does not contain alcohol, as alcohol can dry out the mouth and contribute to bad breath. Opting for an alcohol-free mouthwash can help maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in the mouth and reduce the risk of dry mouth.
Most of the time, the most effective way to treat bad breath is by practicing good oral hygiene.
Tobacco smoking is the most concentrated form of pollution that most people are exposed to. It impairs the ability to identify odors and diminishes the sense of taste. Quitting smoking improves the smell function.
If you want to prevent bad breath caused by dry mouth, follow a strict high-level hygiene routine. Brushing and flossing multiple times a day can keep odour causing bacteria levels low, keeping breath fresh. Additionally, avoiding smoking, alcohol, and caffeine can reduce the buildup of bacteria and lingering odours.