The UK health research body Cochrane is currently assembling a review of the scientific literature on interventions for bad breath. In their previous review of mouthwashes in 2008, the five best trials showed that if they contained anti-bacterials such as chlorhexidine and cetylpyridinium chloride, chlorine dioxide or zinc, they could reduce unpleasant smells to an extent. But the authors did call for more trials to be done. Hopefully this next review will be able to give more information about which mouthwashes to choose.
Remember to gargle with salt water and practice good oral hygiene to prevent tonsil stones from forming. Small tonsil stones can be removed at home, but if you have large tonsil stones or are experiencing severe symptoms, it's best to see a doctor for proper treatment.
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Food and drinks such as alcohol, caffeinated liquids, onions, garlic, citrus fruits, tomatoes, peppermints, spicy foods, and fried or fatty foods should be avoided to help control acid reflux and the subsequent halitosis related.
Sinusitis, an inflammation of the sinuses, can also contribute to bad breath from the throat. When the sinuses become blocked or infected, mucus can build up and create an environment for bacteria to thrive. This can result in bad breath. Treating sinusitis with nasal irrigation and medication can help reduce bad breath.
Bleeding or dry sockets after extractions (like wisdom tooth removal) can cause bad breath until the wound heals. An infection from a dental implant can also cause bad breath, thus, good oral hygiene is crucial to prevent unpleasant complications.
Alcohol causes excessive retching and burping, which lead to a reflux of acids and chemicals from inside your body that find their way to your mouth. So alcohol is one of the leading sources of bad breath, which is particularly common in the U.S.
Dentures that are not cleaned correctly may be collecting bacteria, fungi, and remaining food particles. All of these cause bad breath.
Certain foods and drinks can contribute to bad breath due to their strong odors or their effects on the mouth. Foods like garlic, onions, and spices contain volatile compounds that are absorbed into the bloodstream and exhaled through the lungs. Coffee and alcohol can leave a lingering odor in the mouth due to their strong flavors.
The complications related to tonsil stones are rare but possible. One of the main issues that it can cause is the deep infection of tonsils, known as an abscess.
Many years ago, soon after I’d started working in radio, I arrived at the newsroom to be given my assignment for the day. I was asked to visit a clinic treating bad breath where I was to get my own breath tested and interview the doctor.
Over-the-Counter Products for Managing Throat-Related Bad Breath
In addition, odor-causing bacteria and food particles can cause bad breath if dentures are not properly cleaned.
Preventing tonsil stones and halitosis involves making certain lifestyle changes and practicing good oral hygiene.
2. Antimicrobial agents: Toothpastes that contain antimicrobial agents like triclosan or essential oils can help kill bacteria that cause bad breath.
Diet and Tonsil Stones: Foods to Avoid and Foods to Eat
Periodontal (gum) disease often causes persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth, and persistent bad breath may mean a sign that you have gum disease.
Herbal teas, such as peppermint, spearmint, and chamomile, can help freshen breath naturally. These teas have antimicrobial properties that can help kill the bacteria responsible for bad breath.