The reasons for bad breath range from the not-so-bad (you had a slice of garlic pizza) to the more urgent (you’ve got an infection). Understanding some of the most common causes of bad breath can help you work with your dentist and hygienist to put together a plan to keep unpleasant mouth odors away.
If you suspect that your bad breath is caused by sinus issues or allergies, it is important to see a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. They may recommend nasal sprays, antihistamines, or other medications to help alleviate your symptoms and improve your breath.
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Other symptoms of tonsil stones may include sore throat, difficulty swallowing, ear pain, and a persistent cough. Some people may also experience a sensation of something stuck in the back of their throat.
The problem with this method is that breathing into your hands doesn’t propel breath out from the back of your mouth in the same way that happens when you talk. So when you breathe into your hand you might miss out on the smells from the gases produced at the back of your tongue, the main place where bad breath originates.
Drinking green tea can also be beneficial for combating bad breath. Green tea contains polyphenols, which have been shown to have antimicrobial properties that can help kill bacteria in the mouth.
Many people have small tonsilloliths, but it’s rare to have a large tonsil stone.
Several factors can cause or contribute to the formation of tonsil stones, such as the following: Substances such as food, dead cells, mucus, and bacteria may get stuck in the nooks and crannies of the tonsils. The body’s immune system, which sees these as foreign invaders, sends white blood cells to the area to fight infection. When the white blood cells are done, they leave small calcifications behind. Usually, these small stones are swallowed but sometimes they get stuck in the tonsillar crypts and continue to grow into tonsil stones. Small stones are common; large stones are rare. Chronic or recurring tonsillitis (inflammation of the tonsils) Large tonsils Chronic sinus problems Poor dental hygiene Certain medications that make your mouth dry
Some recommended toothpastes for fighting halitosis include Colgate Total Advanced Fresh + Whitening Toothpaste, Crest Pro-Health Advanced Deep Clean Toothpaste, and Sensodyne Pronamel Fresh Breath Enamel Toothpaste. These toothpastes contain a combination of fluoride, antimicrobial agents, tartar control ingredients, and freshening agents to combat bad breath.
We also work closely with medical professionals to help you find a solution when the source of the bad odor is not in the mouth.
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.
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Foods and Beverages that Contribute to Throat-Related Bad Breath
On the other hand, there are foods that can help freshen breath. Apples and carrots, for example, stimulate saliva production, which can help wash away bacteria and food particles in the mouth. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can also help keep the mouth hydrated and reduce the risk of dry mouth, a common cause of bad breath.
If you smoke, quit. Ask your healthcare provider for help. You will have better smelling breath and a healthier body overall.
Therefore, it is advisable to use cotton swabs or water picks for this purpose as they can handle it more delicately. If the tonsil stones are large, the doctor may recommend surgical removal.
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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