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Gum disease – also called gingivitis – is very common among adults. Gingivitis is caused by an inflammation of the gums due to plaque and bacteria buildup. It is important to follow good oral hygiene habits – like brushing and flossing every day – to prevent gum disease and tooth decay.
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Bacteria is usually to cause of bad breath, but there are a number of health conditions that can be a culprit as well. Bad breath may be the first warning sign to more serious problems. Postnasal drip, respiratory and tonsil infections, sinus problems, diabetes, liver and kidney issues, and certain blood disorders can be causes of bad breath. It’s rare, but bad breath can be a sign of cancer or other serious conditions like metabolic disorders.
To make herbal tea for fresh breath, steep a tea bag or a teaspoon of dried herbs in a cup of hot water for 5-10 minutes. Strain the tea and let it cool down to a comfortable temperature. Drink the tea slowly, swishing it around in your mouth before swallowing. Repeat this process several times a day for best results.
2. Brush Up on Your Oral Hygiene – (Pun intended) You are the only one who can remove dental plaque on a daily basis. This takes both commitment and a great technique. Don’t’ rush through your oral hygiene routine. Ask your dentist or dental hygienist for tips on the best ways to brush and floss. Consider adding a flexible tongue cleaner to your routine to remove plaque from the tongue. As you consistently remove plaque, you reduce the bacterial count in your mouth, which lowers the risk for bad breath.
International Dental Health Foundation: "Frequently Asked Questions: Bad Breath."
Halitosis in Children: How to Help Your Child Fight Bad Breath
The smell of tonsil stones can be quite unpleasant and can lead to bad breath. The odor is caused by the buildup of bacteria, food particles, and other debris that gets trapped in the tonsil crevices. The bacteria break down the particles, releasing a foul smell.
Sinus infection (sinusitis) symptoms can include headaches, a sore throat, and toothaches. Antibiotics and home remedies can relieve sinus infection symptoms.
Maintaining fresh breath is not only important for social interactions but also for our overall oral health and confidence. Understanding the causes of bad breath and practicing good oral hygiene are crucial in preventing and treating bad breath. Avoiding certain foods, staying hydrated, and incorporating probiotics into your diet can also help promote fresher breath. Regular dental checkups and choosing the right mouthwash and chewing gum can further support your efforts in maintaining fresh breath. By taking these steps, you can enjoy the benefits of fresh breath and a healthier smile.
Dr. Jonathan Everett received his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Washington and completed his undergraduate studies in biochemistry at Washington State University. During this time, Dr. Everett served as both the President of the American Student Dental Association chapter as well as the Student Council Vice President. As a board-member of DentPAC for the Washington State Dental Association, Dr. Everett fought to maintain the quality of dental care provided in Washington State by working with state legislators and advocating for patient-centered dentistry in Olympia.
Academy of General Dentistry: "What is Halitosis?" "Does a Smaller Waist Mean Smelly Breath?"
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is another common cause of halitosis. When plaque builds up on the teeth and gums, it can lead to inflammation and infection. This can result in an unpleasant odor coming from the mouth. Certain medical conditions such as dry mouth, sinus infections, and respiratory tract infections can also contribute to bad breath.
Halitosis caused by intraoral factors results from changes that occur within the mouth and is responsible for the majority of cases of bad breath. The following are the most common intraoral causes of halitosis:
While there is not scientific evidence to support an answer to the question, we believe the answer is yes. It makes sense to assume that the masks trap our exhaled air against the face, providing the opportunity to smell it. If that exhaled air contains the sulfurous gases of bad breath, we believe that our noses are more likely to detect them in that trapped environment.
Halitosis is the condition of having a bad breath. Some common causes of bad breath are-
Bad breath in smokers is caused by the tobacco itself—the lungs retain a measure of the tobacco smoke for a while after the cigarette has been extinguished and these chemicals remain in the mouth, making a greater case for halitosis.