The three main ways to prevent bad breath is to brush and floss teeth twice daily, use a tongue scraper to get rid of bacteria on the tongue and visit your dentist regularly. However, bad breath, also called halitosis, affects many Canadians even with proper oral hygiene practices. However, it is possible to treat and in some cases, prevent entirely.
It can be difficult to determine if your breath smells bad, as we become accustomed to our own odors. However, there are a few ways to test your breath. One method is to lick the back of your hand and let it dry for a few seconds. Then, smell your hand. If there is an unpleasant odor, it may indicate that your breath smells bad.
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When choosing a mouthwash for fresh breath, it is important to look for certain ingredients. Antiseptic ingredients like essential oils or chlorhexidine can kill bacteria that cause bad breath. Fluoride can help prevent cavities and strengthen teeth. Alcohol-free mouthwashes are gentler on the mouth and do not contribute to dry mouth, which can worsen bad breath.
Tonsil stones are small formations that develop in pockets within the tonsils. When you look in your mouth, you may see the white or yellow formations that are causing your breath to change for the worse. Tonsil stones are not growths. They typically don’t pose a health concern. They are more of a nuisance that can create mild discomfort depending on size (stones can range from the size of a grain of rice to a grape).
In addition to poor oral hygiene and dietary factors, certain medical conditions can also cause bad breath. Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, reduces saliva production, which leads to an increase in bacteria in the mouth. Sinus infections and respiratory conditions can also contribute to bad breath due to the presence of mucus and bacteria in the nasal passages.
Certain medications can also cause bad breath as a side effect. These medications may affect saliva production or alter the balance of bacteria in the mouth, leading to halitosis. Examples of medications that commonly cause bad breath include certain antidepressants, antihistamines, and diuretics.
Chewing gum can help remedy bad breath until you are able to see your dentist for a deep cleaning. The best chewing gum is sugar-free chewing gum. The sweetness of this gum comes from sweeteners and not sugar, so it doesn’t cause tooth decay.
Making dietary changes can help improve breath odor. Avoiding foods that are known to cause bad breath, such as garlic and onions, can be beneficial. Instead, opt for foods that promote good oral health, such as fruits and vegetables. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can also help keep the mouth hydrated and reduce the risk of bad breath.
Certain strains of probiotics, such as Streptococcus salivarius K12 and Lactobacillus salivarius, have been shown to reduce the levels of harmful bacteria in the mouth and improve breath odor. These probiotics can be found in certain oral health products, such as lozenges or mouthwashes.
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Introduction: The Surprising Causes of Chronic Bad Breath
Know how you can contact your healthcare provider if you have questions, especially after office hours or on weekends. Online Medical Reviewer: Jessica Gotwals RN BSN MPH © 2000-2023 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions. Find a location Find a provider Make an appointment Login to MyChart patient portal Refer a patient Diseases and Conditions Bad Breath (Halitosis) StayWell Disclaimer | Manage Cookie Preferences | Do Not Sell My Personal Information Online Privacy Statement Policies and Notices Copyright And Healthcare Disclaimer Website Terms And Conditions Of Use Halitosis Can Be a Symptom of a Serious Disease Home Blog Halitosis Can Be A Symptom Of A Serious Disease
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Poor dental hygieneLack of saliva in the mouthPoor lifestyle choices such as smoking and alcohol
Sometimes, tonsil stones can cause infection, and the infection can spread to the rest of your tonsil. Usually, symptoms of tonsil infection include ear pain, large tonsil stones, pain in your throat or tonsils, and difficulty breathing.