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Halitosis, better known as severe bad breath, can cause an embarrassing social problem, but it can also be a sign of an underlying medical problem.
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One of the most common causes of bad breath is the buildup of germs and bacteria inside your mouth. When it is not cleaned regularly, over time a condition known as halitosis or persistent bad breath ensues. This oral condition is something everyone can do without, as it is particularly a nuisance to people you regularly come into contact with.
There are many risk factors and causes for halitosis, and even healthy people have bad breath on occasion.
How to tell if your breath smells bad
There are several natural remedies that can help freshen breath and improve oral health. Peppermint is a popular herb that has been used for centuries to freshen breath. It contains menthol, which has a cooling effect and can help mask bad breath. Tea tree oil is another natural remedy that has antimicrobial properties and can help kill bacteria in the mouth. It can be diluted with water and used as a mouthwash or added to toothpaste.
You can also implement the use of a water pick. You can mix water and mouthwash into the container and flush out your tonsil stones that way. This method is a little easier and also shouldn’t affect your gag reflex as bad as the q-tip might. It is also good for knocking out loose bacteria and food particles that may be hidden inside your tonsils.
Chronic sinus infections and post-nasal drop often lead to bad breath, as do persistent throat infections. Some people suffer from infections in the stomach that travel up the esophagus into the mouth, leaving a bad smell. Severe acid reflux and GERD can cause a bad odor, and certain metabolic disorders emit unpleasant gases through the breath.
How to tell if your breath smells bad
Replacing these foods with probiotic-rich foods like yogurt and kefir and soft foods like potatoes, pasta, and soups can help your tonsils eliminate the bacteria from your throat.
Halitosis and Respiratory Issues: What You Need to Know
Likewise, dieters who don't eat often enough can have bad breath. When your body breaks down fat, the process releases chemicals that can give your breath an unpleasant smell.
You won’t have to miss out on birthdays or social gatherings anymore if you follow these simple tips.
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Certain medical conditions, such as sinus infections, respiratory tract infections, and gastrointestinal issues, can cause chronic bad breath. A healthcare professional can help identify the underlying cause of bad breath and recommend appropriate treatment.
Coffee and alcohol can also contribute to bad breath. Both of these beverages can dry out the mouth, leading to a decrease in saliva production. Saliva plays a crucial role in washing away bacteria and food particles, so a decrease in saliva can lead to an increase in bacteria growth and bad breath.
As stated above, tonsils have many gaps, pits, and crevices known as tonsillar crypts. They trap viruses, bacteria, fungi, and other germs and make the immune system fight infections. Sometimes, crevices can add debris such as bacteria, food, and dead cells, leading to calcium build-up forming the stones.