Halitosis that is caused by a persistent dry mouth is due to a lack of saliva. Because your saliva washes away the leftover food particles that can make your breath smell, an inadequate amount of it can mean those particles stay put. Drinking water is an easy way of mimicking saliva, and will help to rinse away the debris that leads to bad breath. Keep a water bottle with you whenever possible so you can sip on water throughout the day to keep bad breath at bay
You don’t have to live with chronic bad breath – a medical condition known as halitosis. There are ways to prevent it and eliminate bad breath once and for all.
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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.
The main symptom of halitosis is a bad odor from the mouth. The odor can be worse in the morning or after smoking, drinking coffee, or eating certain foods, such as garlic.
Another way that alcohol can lead to bad breath is by changing the makeup of bacteria in your mouth. A study published in Microbiome found that people who drank the most were more likely to have bacteria in their mouths that contributed to bad breath.
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Bad breath wasn’t perceived as a medical condition until one company realized that it could help them sell mouthwash Walter Zerla/Blend Images/Corbis
During a physical examination, a healthcare professional may use a tongue depressor and a light to examine the back of the throat for the presence of tonsil stones. They may also gently palpate the neck to check for swollen lymph nodes.
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The science behind bad breath: Understanding the causes
If you think there’s an issue in your mouth that’s behind your bad breath, seeing a dental professional for treatment can help you get to the bottom of the problem and improve your oral health and the scent of your breath at the same time.
Some essential oils such as lemongrass, myrrh, cinnamon, and tea tree oil contain anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antibacterial properties that make them excellent for preventing and treating tonsil stones.
Sugar-free mints won’t cure halitosis, but they’re a great tool to have when you need a fast way to freshen your breath! Sugar-free gum is another easy, fast way to get rid of your bad breath. Chewing gum will also stimulate your salivary flow, which is especially helpful if the odor is due to a dry mouth. You can use mints and gum as frequently as necessary, as long as you choose a sugar-free variety. Gum and mints that contain sugar can contribute to tooth decay and other dental problems.
But your tonsils don’t always do their job well. For some people, they’re more trouble than help. Research suggests that people who have their tonsils removed are no more likely to get bacterial or viral infections than people with who keep their tonsils.
Your liver is also supposed to filter out toxins. And like the kidneys, when it’s not doing its job, the result can be a toxic buildup that you can smell. The type of breath related to liver disease is called fetor hepaticus, and it’s usually described as a musty smell. If you have this type of bad breath, you need to talk to a doctor.
Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial in preventing bad breath. Brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing daily are essential habits to keep your mouth clean and fresh. When brushing your teeth, it is important to use the proper technique. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Brush all surfaces of your teeth, including the front, back, and chewing surfaces. Don't forget to brush your tongue as well, as bacteria can accumulate on its surface and contribute to bad breath.
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