If not corrected, poor oral hygiene can cause other oral problems such as cavities and gum disease. Visit Scott Edwards DDS to learn how to take excellent care of your teeth and mouth and prevent future problems.
Although tonsil stones are rarely serious, they are be unsightly, uncomfortable, and cause secondary conditions such as halitosis so bad your friends and family may consider a restraining order....
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Bad breath, also known as halitosis, can result from poor dental health habits and can be made worse by the types of foods you eat. The most common cause of halitosis is inadequate dental hygiene. If particles of food are left in the mouth, their breakdown by bacteria produces sulfur compounds. If regular brushing, flossing and hydration doesn’t solve it, the best solution is to see your dentist for a deep cleaning.
You can tell you have tonsil stones if you can see the white deposits trapped in the crevices of your tonsils. Other times, you might notice them when they come out, “appearing” suddenly in your throat or mouth. They are usually white and can be soft and/or gritty.
1. Teach proper oral hygiene: Show your child how to brush their teeth properly using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Encourage them to brush all surfaces of their teeth, including the front, back, and chewing surfaces. Teach them how to floss properly as well.
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.
Halitosis, commonly known as bad breath, is a condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It can have a significant impact on both oral health and social interactions. Bad breath can be embarrassing and can lead to self-consciousness and low self-esteem. Understanding the causes of halitosis and how to prevent and treat it is essential for maintaining good oral health and overall well-being.
Doctors may recommend antibiotics. It helps lower the bacteria count, leading to tonsil stones development. However, the biofilms or hardened structures of the stones can resist antibiotics.
How to tell if your breath smells bad
Bad breath may also be caused by medications you are taking, including central nervous system agents, anti-Parkinson drugs, antihistamines/decongestants, anti-psychotics, anti-cholinergics, narcotics, anti-hypertensives, and anti-depressants.
While using mints or sugar-free gum can help to mask the odor, the most effective way to improve bad breath caused by tobacco products is to quit smoking or using other tobacco products. If you’re ready to quit, your dentist and hygienist can connect you to quitting resources and provide support.
Halitosis can be caused by a variety of factors. Poor oral hygiene is one of the most common causes. When we don't brush and floss regularly, bacteria build up in our mouths, leading to the production of foul-smelling gases. Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is another common cause of bad breath. The bacteria that cause gum disease release toxins that can contribute to halitosis.
Cough: You might discover that you have a tonsil stone when you cough. Coughing with some energy may help in loosening the stone.
There are several factors that can contribute to dry mouth. Certain medications, such as antihistamines and antidepressants, can reduce saliva production. Medical conditions like Sjogren's syndrome and diabetes can also cause dry mouth. Additionally, lifestyle habits like breathing through the mouth instead of the nose or excessive alcohol consumption can contribute to dry mouth.
Your diet can play a significant role in preventing bad breath. Certain foods and drinks can contribute to bad breath, while others can help freshen your breath. Here are some foods and drinks to be aware of:
To keep saliva flowing and rinsing your mouth naturally, eat healthy, fibrous foods such as carrots, apples, and celery. Not only will the chewing action increase saliva production, the fibers will also act as a natural toothbrush, cleaning your teeth as you eat.
Sometimes certain medications are the cause of smell or taste disorders, and improvement occurs when that medicine is stopped or changed. Although certain medications can cause chemosensory problems, others particularly anti-allergy drugs seem to improve the senses of taste and smell. Some patients, notably those with serious respiratory infections or seasonal allergies, regain their smell or taste simply by waiting for their illness to run its course. In many cases, nasal obstructions, such as polyps, can be removed to restore airflow to the receptor area and can correct the loss of smell and taste. Occasionally, chemosenses return to normal just as spontaneously as they disappeared. Quick Links News Physician Portal CME Calendar Online Orientation Careers Take Charge of Your Health Publications Pay Your Bill Vendors Foundation - Ways to Give Residency ValleyWay MyChart Institutional Review Board Practices Primary Care Offices Specialists Care Offices Walk-in Care Services Urology Cancer Heart & Vascular Women & Children Neuroscience Orthopedics Bariatric Weight Loss Program Physical Rehabilitation Other Services Patients & Visitors A Message From the Joint Commission Notice of Privacy Practices Patient Rights & Responsibilities Community Education Programs Advance Directives Support Groups Locations Cape Fear Valley Medical Center Highsmith-Rainey Specialty Hospital Rehabilitation Center Behavioral Health Care Bladen County Hospital Hoke Hospital