Millions of Americans take multiple prescription medications every day, and the combinations of medications can cause severe dry mouth. A dry mouth does not smell good. In a dry mouth, bacteria can proliferate more readily, leading to heavier plaque buildup and a higher risk for dental diseases.
Halitosis, which is simply the official term for bad breath that is chronic and persistent, can have a wide variety of causes, ranging from simple to serious. Some of the most common offenders include:
.
Tonsil stones are small formations that develop in pockets within the tonsils. When you look in your mouth, you may see the white or yellow formations that are causing your breath to change for the worse. Tonsil stones are not growths. They typically don’t pose a health concern. They are more of a nuisance that can create mild discomfort depending on size (stones can range from the size of a grain of rice to a grape).
If you suspect that your medication is causing bad breath, it is important to consult with your healthcare provider. They may be able to adjust your dosage or prescribe an alternative medication that does not have the same side effect. It is important to never stop taking prescribed medications without consulting a healthcare professional.
Your dentist will often treat the cause of the problem if your bad breath is from poor oral healthcare.
To use a tongue scraper effectively, start at the back of your tongue and gently scrape forward. Rinse the scraper after each pass to remove any debris. Repeat this process several times, covering the entire surface of your tongue. Be careful not to scrape too hard or you may cause irritation or discomfort. After using a tongue scraper, rinse your mouth thoroughly with water or mouthwash to remove any loosened debris.
Some foods, such as garlic, may cause temporary bad breath with no quick fixes. Garlic gets absorbed into your bloodstream and the odor remains until your body has process the food.
Smoking and Tobacco Use: The Link to Chronic Bad Breath
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.
Some people are born with a poor sense of smell or taste. Upper respiratory infections are blamed for some losses, and injury to the head can also cause smell or taste problems.
About Us| Services General Dentistry| Dental Exams & Cleaning| Pediatric Dentistry| Emergency Dental Care| Restorative Dentistry| Root Canals & Crowns| TMJ| Oravital®| Cosmetic Dentistry| Dental Health| Teeth Whitening| Veneers| Dentures| Orthodontics| Orthodontics & Invisalign| | Our Location| Blog| Book Appointment| 8 Causes of Bad Breath (& How to Fix It)
Dry mouth is one of the leading causes of halitosis and can be the result of stress, medications, radiation or chemotherapy, tobacco or recreational drug use, and autoimmune diseases such as Sjorgren’s syndrome.
The condition needs urgent medical attention as it can also be one of the symptoms of salivary glands-related diseases.
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is another common cause of halitosis. When plaque builds up on the teeth and gums, it can lead to inflammation and infection. This can result in an unpleasant odor coming from the mouth. Certain medical conditions such as dry mouth, sinus infections, and respiratory tract infections can also contribute to bad breath.
If your tonsil stones keep coming back, if they’re large, or if your tonsils seem overly irritated or swollen, it might be time to visit your doctor.
If you’re concerned about your alcohol consumption, your dental professional can help you get assistance with cutting back or quitting for good.
Most of the bad smell comes from volatile sulphur compounds, gases with distinctive odours. Hydrogen sulphide, with its classic rotten eggs smell is one of the main offenders, but even worse is a substance called ethyl mercaptan which tends to be described as smelling of decomposing cabbage. It’s the compound which makes some people’s urine particularly pungent after they’ve eaten asparagus.