Good oral hygiene and fresh breath are important for maintaining a healthy mouth and overall well-being. Understanding the causes of bad breath and taking steps to prevent it can help us maintain fresh breath and improve our oral health. By practicing good oral hygiene, being mindful of our diet and lifestyle choices, and seeking medical attention when necessary, we can ensure that our breath remains fresh and our smiles stay bright.
Severe mouth odor is typically caused by dental infections that require treatment by a qualified dental professional. Other common causes of bad breath include diets containing certain foods, smoking and other tobacco use, poor oral hygiene, some medications, and may even result from health conditions present throughout the body.
.
HomeNewsSportWeatheriPlayerSoundsBitesizeCBeebiesCBBCFoodHomeNewsSportEarthReelWorklifeTravelCultureFutureTVWeatherSoundsClose menu
DIY Remedy #6: Cinnamon Chewing Gum
There are a few health conditions outside the mouth that can contribute to bad breath. Because dental problems are far more likely to be the culprit, we always rule them out first. If your dentist rules out any dental problems as the source of your bad breath, you then likely need to look outside the mouth.
Halitosis is defined as a chronic bad breath that mint and mouthwash can’t solve, as mentioned above. Also known as fetor oris, halitosis can make an affected person subconscious and they feel reluctant to hang out with larger groups of people because they are embarrassed by their bad breath. It is estimated that 1 in 4 people have halitosis on a regular basis[i]. According to the latest statistics, an estimated 25% of the world population is having trouble with this annoying symptom. After tooth decay and gum disease, halitosis is the third most common reason people seek dental care[ii]. As should you if you ever notice that your toothpaste or mouthwash does not seem to win the fight over that awful bad breath.
Tonsil stones are formed when debris, such as food particles, dead cells, and mucus, become trapped in the crevices of the tonsils. Over time, these trapped materials harden and calcify, forming small stones. The exact cause of tonsil stones is not fully understood, but factors such as poor oral hygiene, chronic sinus issues, and large tonsils with deep crevices may contribute to their formation.
As dentists, we are your best resource for addressing the problem of bad breath. We are in the perfect position to recognize, discuss, and treat this particular problem. Bad breath is complex in that it has both emotional and physical repercussions. We hear the distressing emotional consequences of bad breath in our confidential conversations with patients, and we see the negative health implications inherent in severe bad breath.
Controlling periodontal disease and maintaining good oral health helps to reduce bad breath. If you have constant bad breath, make a list of the foods you eat and any medications you take. Some medications may contribute to bad breath.
Poor oral hygiene is one of the main causes of bad breath. When we don't brush and floss regularly, food particles can get trapped in our teeth and gums, leading to the growth of bacteria. These bacteria release sulfur compounds that produce an unpleasant odor. Additionally, plaque buildup on the teeth can also contribute to bad breath.
Introduction: The Importance of Fresh Breath
Diet and Tonsil Stones: Foods to Avoid and Foods to Eat
Halitosis and Oral Health: The Connection Explained
The medical condition dry mouth (also called xerostomia) also can cause bad breath. Saliva is necessary to moisten the mouth, neutralize acids produced by plaque, and wash away dead cells that build up on the tongue, gums, and cheeks. If not removed, these cells decompose and can cause bad breath. Dry mouth may be a side effect of various medications, salivary gland problems, or continuous breathing through the mouth. In fact, morning breath is worse for people who sleep with their mouths open.
Diet plays a significant role in halitosis. Certain foods, such as garlic and onions, contain sulfur compounds that can be released into the bloodstream and exhaled through the lungs, causing bad breath. Avoiding these foods or minimizing their consumption can help reduce halitosis.
Millions of people – an estimated 1 in 4 people globally – suffer from chronic bad breath/ halitosis. It can cause embarrassment and anxiety, but it’s relatively easy to remedy.
Top 5 Mouthwashes for Fresh Breath