The benefits of tongue scraping and other oral care practices
Dry Mouth: A Common Culprit of Chronic Bad Breath
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Drinking plenty of water can also help prevent tonsil stones and bad breath. Staying hydrated helps keep the mouth moist, reducing the risk of bacterial overgrowth and the formation of tonsil stones.
These foods and drinks can also affect the pH balance in the mouth, creating an environment that is favorable for bacteria growth. Additionally, they can cause dehydration, which reduces saliva production and increases the risk of bad breath.
Bacteria can thrive in a sweet treatment. So sugary foods are absolutely a big no-no. Say goodbye to fizzy drinks. Try incorporating particular fruits and vegetables such as apples and carrots in your daily diet.
On the contrary, pathologic halitosis is caused by oral diseases that promote the growth of bacteria, leading to chronic bad breath. Although other factors may also contribute, periodontal diseases, such as gingivitis or periodontitis, are the most common oral diseases that are pathological causes of halitosis.
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.
Can cavities cause bad breath or halitosis? Tooth decay occurs when bacteria break down the tooth enamel and dentin, resulting in cavities. The bacteria responsible for cavities can cause bad breath and are, therefore, can be one of the causes of halitosis.
To remove your tonsil stones, use a tonsil stone pick or water flosser on a very low setting, but never put too much pressure on your tonsils, even if you cannot get the stone out. Check out my article on the best tonsil stone removal tools.
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Your dentist will often treat the cause of the problem if your bad breath is from poor oral healthcare.
Another side effect of smoking is dry mouth, caused by bacteria in the mouth from tobacco. Dry mouth has a significant correlation to smoking, which is also a leading cause of halitosis. Dry mouth not only affects breath, but also affects gingivitis, making an even bigger case for the importance of regular dental checkups if you are a smoker.
Smoking or chewing tobacco is terrible for your health, but it’s also terrible for your breath. They dehydrate your mouth and cause residue that causes smells long after use.
Tonsil stones, or tonsilloliths, are hard, sometimes painful bits of bacteria and debris that get stuck in nooks on your tonsils.
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.
If you have dentures, take them out at night. Clean them completely before putting them back in your mouth. Talk with your dentist before using deodorizing sprays or tablets. Some only mask the odor for a short time.