The medical condition dry mouth (also called xerostomia) also can cause bad breath. Saliva is necessary to moisten the mouth, neutralize acids produced by plaque, and wash away dead cells that build up on the tongue, gums, and cheeks. If not removed, these cells decompose and can cause bad breath. Dry mouth may be a side effect of various medications, salivary gland problems, or continuous breathing through the mouth. In fact, morning breath is worse for people who sleep with their mouths open.
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Here are some of the causes of bad breath, so you can be more confident when you show your smile.
If your dentist determines that your mouth is healthy and the odor is not of oral origin, you may be referred to your family doctor or to a specialist to determine the odor source and treatment plan. You can go over a list of your medications with them to see if any of them could be adding to the problem. Work with them to keep diabetes, allergies, and other conditions under control.
The impact of halitosis on social interactions and self-esteem can be significant. People with chronic bad breath may feel self-conscious about speaking or being close to others, which can affect their relationships and overall quality of life. It is important to differentiate between occasional bad breath and halitosis in order to seek appropriate treatment and support.
Bad breath is primarily caused by bacteria that reside in our mouths. These bacteria break down food particles and release sulfur compounds, which are responsible for the unpleasant odor associated with bad breath. Poor oral hygiene, such as not brushing or flossing regularly, allows these bacteria to thrive and produce more sulfur compounds.
In addition to brushing and flossing, tongue scraping is an often overlooked step in oral hygiene. The tongue harbors bacteria that can contribute to bad breath. Using a tongue scraper or gently brushing your tongue with your toothbrush can help remove these bacteria and freshen your breath.
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.
Halitosis vs. normal bad breath: What's the difference?
In extreme cases, your doctor may recommend a tonsillectomy or laser cryptolysis, which reduces the number of crevices and folds in your tonsils.
Parsley is another herb that can help freshen breath. Chewing on a sprig of parsley after a meal can help neutralize odors and promote saliva production, which helps wash away bacteria. Other natural remedies for halitosis include chewing on cloves or cinnamon sticks, which have antimicrobial properties.
The Role of Poor Oral Hygiene in Throat-Related Bad Breath
Loss of smell and taste may result from polyps in the nasal or sinus cavities, hormonal disturbances, or dental problems. They can also be caused by prolonged exposure to certain chemicals such as insecticides, and by some medicines.
If so, avoid foods like spinach, peppercorns, sesame seeds, popcorn, and other foods that can easily become stuck in your mouth. Check out my article on tonsil stone diet tips here.
Because more than ninety percent of bad breath originates in the mouth, your dentist is your first line of defense. In many cases, bad breath is simply a symptom of a bigger problem. Seeing your dentist first is important to rule out dangerous dental infections as the cause of the unpleasant odor.
When bacteria and food particles aren’t properly removed from the surface of the teeth, cavities can begin to form, eating away at the enamel of our teeth. If cavities aren’t properly dealt with, they can cause further decay and infection which may lead to abscesses and broken teeth.
If your dentist determines that your mouth is healthy and the odor is not of oral origin, you may be referred to your family doctor or to a specialist to determine the odor source and treatment plan. You can go over a list of your medications with them to see if any of them could be adding to the problem. Work with them to keep diabetes, allergies, and other conditions under control.