In addition to poor oral hygiene and dietary factors, certain medical conditions can also cause bad breath. Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, reduces saliva production, which leads to an increase in bacteria in the mouth. Sinus infections and respiratory conditions can also contribute to bad breath due to the presence of mucus and bacteria in the nasal passages.
It is a little-known fact that halitosis can be a result of some underlying health problems. In fact, halitosis can be the sign that makes you wonder if there is something more deeply hidden that is causing your health to decline. Here are some of the most common health issues that create bad breath.
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- Fresh fruits and vegetables: Crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples, carrots, and celery can help stimulate saliva production, which can help wash away bacteria and freshen your breath.
When to See a Doctor for Halitosis: Serious Underlying Causes and Treatment Options
1. Peppermint oil: Peppermint oil has a refreshing scent and can help freshen breath. It has antimicrobial properties that can kill bacteria in the mouth. You can add a few drops of peppermint oil to water and use it as a mouthwash or add it to your toothpaste.
Introduction: The Social Stigma of Bad Breath
During a dental check-up, the dentist will examine the mouth, including the tonsils, for any signs of tonsil stones or other oral health issues. They may also perform a thorough cleaning to remove any plaque or bacteria that could contribute to bad breath.
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.
DIY Remedy #4: Baking Soda Mouthwash
Ultimately, this will remove the stones. After you have taken them out, rinse the mouth thoroughly to wash off any debris. Make a note that you don’t use this technique for large stones as this increases the risk of bleeding. If you are having bad breath due to tonsil stones, then consume spices that have aromatic essence. This will help mask the breath odor. Some of the aromatic spices that you can eat after a meal to cleanse the palate are-
In some cases, medical treatments may be necessary to effectively treat tonsil stones and halitosis.
Natural remedies used in the treatment of bad breath include chewing on mint or parsley. If bad breath is due to a health problem such as a sinus infection, diabetes, acid reflux (gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD), etc., then the underlying medical issue needs to be treated. If bad breath is a side effect of taking a medication, discuss with a health care professional whether other options for medication can be taken. Never stop taking a medication without first consulting your health care professional.
Certain bacteria on the back of the tongue can interact with amino acids in foods and make smelly sulfur compounds.
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Halitosis is the condition of having a bad breath. Some common causes of bad breath are-
If you don't brush and floss teeth daily, food particles can remain in your mouth, promoting bacterial growth between teeth, around the gums, and on the tongue. This causes bad breath. Inflammation of the gums (gingivitis) from poor dental hygiene can also cause bad breath.
Called to schedule an appointment as I thought I had an abscess. Office was able to get me in the same day, which I was... thankful for as I had yet to find a new dentist. Check in was quick. Front office staff was very professional & friendly. Panoramic & bitewing x-rays were taken. Also inserted a tiny camera in my mouth & took pictures of all of my teeth. Dr. Birch confirmed that I had an abscessed tooth & explained to me my treatment options. I was given a print out of my treatment plan & costs. Gave me a prescription for antibiotics & scheduled me for my tooth extraction next week. Great experience overall!read more