In addition to plaque on the teeth, it can also accumulate in the deep grooves and pits on the tongue. For this reason, many people also need to add tongue cleaning to their oral hygiene routines.
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
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When you clean away plaque, you get rid of these bacteria. When you get rid of these bacteria, you stop the production of smelly gases that make up bad breath. The problem is that many people do not clean away plaque adequately and/or consistently.
The primary method to prevent halitosis is to brush twice a day, floss regularly, and use mouthwashes to clean and plaque-free your oral cavity. Staying well-hydrated and lessening smoking, alcohol, and caffeine consumption is beneficial. Maintain regular visits with your healthcare provider to identify possible causes before they worsen.
If your breath still smells bad even after brushing your teeth it may be a sign of gum disease and/or cavities. The bacteria that cause bad breath can hide in cavities in your teeth. This makes it difficult to get rid of the bacteria when you're brushing your teeth because it's hidden in places that you can't reach. Similarly, these bacteria can hide in deep pockets caused by gum disease.
4. Freshening agents: Toothpastes that contain ingredients like baking soda or menthol can help freshen breath and leave your mouth feeling clean and refreshed.
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.
The Science Behind Bad Breath
To make lemon water for fresh breath, simply squeeze the juice of half a lemon into a glass of warm water. Drink this mixture first thing in the morning on an empty stomach. You can also add a teaspoon of honey for added flavor and additional antibacterial benefits.
Conclusion
Americans spend more than $1 billion a year on over the counter halitosis products, many of which are ineffective because they only mask the problem.
Our clinical experts continually monitor the health and medical content posted on CURA4U, and we update our blogs and articles when new information becomes available. Last reviewed by Dr.Saad Zia on April 29th, 2023.
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What is halitosis and what causes it?
You get tonsil stones when deposits of bacteria sit inside your tonsils for a long time. It turns into this crystalized white or yellow rock. There is a chance you have actually accidentally bitten one. Have you ever had something randomly appear in your mouth? You think it is leftover food so you chew on it. Then you are met with this absolutely horrendous taste in your mouth. Nine times out of ten that was a tonsil stone. I don’t recommend this but if you cut one open and smell. You will see why it causes such horrible breath.
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.