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Our clinical experts continually monitor the health and medical content posted on CURA4U, and we update our blogs and articles when new information becomes available. Last reviewed by Dr.Saad Zia on April 29th, 2023.
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Fresh breath is something that many people take for granted, but it plays a significant role in our daily lives. Whether it's for social interactions, professional meetings, or intimate moments, having fresh breath can make a world of difference. Bad breath, also known as halitosis, can be embarrassing and can negatively impact our self-confidence. It can also be a sign of underlying oral health issues. In this article, we will explore the causes of bad breath and discuss various ways to maintain fresh breath.
Tonsil stones are risk-free buildup that will go away on their own. However, the duration of tonsil stones can vary from person to person. They may go away or melt on their own in a short period, or they can also stay for weeks if they are deep in the throat and bacteria continue to grow on them. Besides, if proper oral hygiene is not performed, it may last for years and lead to a more serious problem, such as tonsillitis.
In addition to practicing good oral hygiene and seeking medical attention when necessary, there are several lifestyle changes that can help maintain fresh breath. Quitting smoking or using tobacco products can significantly improve the smell of your breath, as well as your overall health.
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.
Some symptoms that occur include loose teeth, bleeding, pus, and a persistent bad taste in the mouth. If you lose a tooth due to periodontitis, your dentist will be able to provide you with emergency dental care and provide guidance on how to correct and prevent future damage.
Some people find that rinsing their mouths with a mixture of water and baking soda helps neutralize odors and freshen their breath. Others prefer using essential oils like peppermint or tea tree oil as a natural mouthwash.
An antiseptic mouthwash can help eliminate bacteria that cause bad breath. For dry mouth, your dentist might recommend artificial saliva. Ask your dentist about which product is best for you.
Mucus is a normal substance produced by lining tissues in the body. Excess mucus or mucus that is yellow, green, brown, or bloody may indicate a problem. Mucus production may increase when allergies, a cold, flu, cough, or sore throat are present. Antihistamines and cold and flu medications may help alleviate excess mucus. A neti pot may be used to decrease nasal congestion and clear mucus.
What happens when you don’t brush and floss regularly? Lots of things, such as periodontal or gum and bone disease, tooth decay, toothaches and bad breath.
The science behind bad breath: Understanding the causes
Kidney disease – about 31 million people in the United States or 10% of the population have chronic kidney disease[vi]. Kidney disease refers to the gradual loss of kidney function and it can be a complication of many other health conditions. How does kidney disease cause halitosis? These organs filter out different minerals in the blood and send healthy blood back to your body and heart. Kidney failure impairs the ability of this organ to filter out minerals and they accumulate in the bloodstream. As a result, you experience a metallic taste and bad breath.
The Role of Probiotics in Halitosis Treatment
The Role of Poor Oral Hygiene in Throat-Related Bad Breath
Keep your saliva flowing by eating healthy foods that make you chew. Carrots and apples need a lot of saliva. You can also chew sugar-free gum or suck on sugar-free candies. If you still don’t have enough saliva to keep your mouth moist, your dentist may suggest artificial saliva.
Speaking of what causes bad breath, you might actually find some of them surprising.