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.
Using mouthwash can also help freshen breath by killing bacteria and neutralizing odors. Chewing sugar-free gum stimulates saliva production, which helps wash away bacteria and food particles. However, it is important to note that these products should not be used as a substitute for proper oral hygiene practices.
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Claudia Hammond analyses the science, the misconceptions – and what you may be doing wrong.
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Understanding the Causes of Bad Breath
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.
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Bad breath, or halitosis, can have a significant impact on social interactions and relationships. It is important to address this condition not only for the sake of social stigma but also for overall oral health and well-being. Poor oral hygiene, diet, gastrointestinal problems, respiratory issues, medications, chronic diseases, and psychological effects can all contribute to bad breath. By understanding the causes and implementing appropriate prevention strategies and treatment options, individuals can manage their halitosis and improve their quality of life. It is important to seek professional help if self-care measures do not improve bad breath symptoms.
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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Maintain good oral hygiene: brush your teeth after every meal, paying attention to the interproximal spaces and tongue, and complement brushing with flossing.Use mouthwash to kill bacteria and temporarily stop bad breath.Keep saliva flowing in the mouth by drinking plenty of water or stimulating saliva with foods that require a lot of chewing.Adjust your diet and avoid foods that cause bad breath or are very sugary, as these are closely linked to tooth decay, which can in turn lead to smelly breath.Reduce or eliminate tobacco and alcohol consumption.Visit the dentist once or twice a year to prevent the onset of oral conditions.Have a professional hygiene once or twice a year to remove plaque from your mouth that can lead to tooth decay or periodontal disease.
Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol consumption are also important in preventing bad breath. These habits not only contribute to bad breath but also have detrimental effects on overall oral health.
If a person experiences severe symptoms like ear pain, redness in tonsils, or swelling, it is recommended to see a doctor. These can be the sign of tonsillitis or any other serious issue. Also, if tonsil stones are very large, it needs immediate medical attention. Besides, if tonsil stones are recurrent, then also one must see a doctor.
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Halitosis vs. normal bad breath: What's the difference?
Tonsil stones smell so bad because they house anaerobic bacteria that produce volatile sulfur compounds which smell like rotten eggs. If you want the smell to go away, you can remove your tonsil stones by gargling a vinegar solution or peroxide and adding probiotic-rich foods like yogurt to your diet.