Saliva is a naturally occurring substance in our body that keeps the mouth, esophagus and digestive tract clean. Think of it as engine oil for your mouth and digestive system. Breaking your fast in the morning regenerates saliva so that the digestive system can continue to do its job. Skipping breakfast brings this entire process to a halt, introducing certain compounds in your mouth that not only lead to dryness but also bad breath.
Freshen Up Your Breath with These Simple DIY Remedies
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If you prefer natural remedies, there are several essential oils and herbs that can help freshen your breath. These natural ingredients have antimicrobial properties that can kill bacteria in the mouth. Here are some essential oils and herbs that can be effective in combating bad breath:
Halitosis is common in people who have tonsil stones. That’s because the bacteria that produce volatile sulfur compounds thrive in the crevices of your throat, where food, mucus, and other bacteria have already built up.
Diabetes – the CDC reports that 30.3 million people have diabetes, which is 9.4% of American population[vii]. Diabetes means you have too much glucose, but the body doesn’t produce enough insulin (or at all) to regulate it. Diabetes is a potentially life-threatening disease that requires early diagnosis, control upon the symptoms and proper treatment. People with diabetes are at a higher risk of periodontal disease and bad breath is one of its many symptoms. Diabetes also contributes to halitosis due to extra ketones it produces.
It is important to be aware of your own breath and take steps to maintain fresh breath and good oral hygiene.
There are some things a person can do to eliminate or at least temporarily mask bad breath. Good oral hygiene, such as brushing the teeth and tongue and flossing, keeps the mouth healthy and can often get rid of bad breath, at least in the short term. Mouthwash may temporarily mask bad breath and can help with oral hygiene. Chewing sugarless gum or sucking on sugar-free mints may temporarily mask bad breath odor. For more serious cases of bad breath, dentists can prescribe special toothpaste and mouthwash that can improve the symptoms of bad breath.
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The reasons for bad breath range from the not-so-bad (you had a slice of garlic pizza) to the more urgent (you’ve got an infection). Understanding some of the most common causes of bad breath can help you work with your dentist and hygienist to put together a plan to keep unpleasant mouth odors away.
Say Goodbye to Embarrassing Odors: Tips for Fresh Breath
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If halitosis persists despite these efforts, it is important to seek professional help. A doctor or dentist can help diagnose and treat any underlying medical conditions that may be contributing to bad breath. With proper care and treatment, halitosis can be effectively managed, leading to fresher breath and improved oral health.
Living with Tonsil Stones and Halitosis: Coping Strategies and Emotional Support
The Impact of Medications on Your Breath
For stones that do not go away on their own, there are several types of treatments: Medications: Antibiotics to help reduce bacteria Antihistamines to reduce mucus from sinus problems or allergies Laser treatment (laser tonsil cryptolysis): a noninvasive treatment that helps minimize or remove the tonsil pockets (crypts) where the tonsil stones are lodged Coblation cryptolysis: radio waves are used to change a salt solution into charged ions that can cut through the tissue to reduce crypts on the tonsils and eliminate tonsil stones Tonsillectomy: removal of the tonsils, usually the last resort but the only way to eliminate tonsil stones and prevent new ones from forming
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.
Oral health, especially dental issues happen to be the main troublemaker when it comes to halitosis.