Certain medical conditions, such as sinus infections, respiratory tract infections, and gastrointestinal issues, can cause chronic bad breath. A healthcare professional can help identify the underlying cause of bad breath and recommend appropriate treatment.
This particular cause may not be very surprising, though, as not brushing your teeth even for a day can send people scurrying in the opposite direction when they see you. Experts at Kirkland Family Dentistry emphasize how this is a leading factor of halitosis.
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Halitosis can often be the result of tooth decay and gum disease. Gingivitis and periodontal disease can create cavities or pockets around the gums, giving bacteria a place to hide and multiply. This bacteria can produce foul-smelling breath which short-term freshening methods only mask.
The condition needs urgent medical attention as it can also be one of the symptoms of salivary glands-related diseases.
Bad breath is often evaluated by a dentist. In addition to patient history and physical examination of the mouth, tests may be needed to diagnose the cause of bad breath, such as: Organoleptic testing: assesses the strength of bad breath Sulfide monitors to measure mouth-air volatile sulfur compound (VSC) content, which are produced by anaerobic bacteria from food debris in the mouth that cause bad breath Gas chromatography to measure VSCs X-rays of the mouth Periodontal charting if gum disease is suspected Brush and floss twice daily Mouthwash Can help kill bacteria or neutralize and mask bad breath Mouthwash is only a temporary solution Clean dentures regularly and thoroughly Keep saliva flowing Chew sugar-free gum or suck on sugar-free hard candy Eat healthy foods that require a lot of chewing, such as carrots or apples Use artificial saliva if your dentist recommends it Don’t smoke See your dentist regularly https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/b/bad-breath https://www.uptodate.com/contents/bad-breath?search=bad%20breath&source=search_result&selectedTitle=1~150&usage_type=default&display_rank=1#H2120250223 https://www.healthgrades.com/right-care/oral-health/6-surprising-causes-of-bad-breath#:~:text=A%20diet%20very%20high%20in,unpleasant%20odor%20from%20your%20mouth.&text=There%20are%20many%20types%20of,turn%20leads%20to%20bad%20breath
- 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.
However, improper oral hygiene is not the only cause of halitosis formation. This troublesome condition may also occur as a result of using dentures or braces. The hard-to-reach areas around these fillings are difficult to reach with a toothbrush or dental floss, which is why bacteria that cause bad breath thrive there. Other common causes of halitosis include: diabetes, kidney disease and thyroid disease, infections of the sinuses, throat or tonsils, dry mouth, improper eating habits (drinking large amounts of alcohol, smoking, starving oneself), taking certain medications (mainly antidepressants, painkillers and diuretics).
The dental hygienist was very good. She did a nice job cleaning my teeth and was not hurried. I think their fees are... very reasonable and they do not pressure you to have work done.read more
Probiotics, such as yogurt or supplements, may also be beneficial in preventing tonsil stones and bad breath. Probiotics help promote a healthy balance of bacteria in the mouth and throat, reducing the risk of bacterial overgrowth and the formation of tonsil stones.
Know what to expect if you do not take the medicine or have the test or procedure.
No, halitosis is not contagious. Since halitosis is caused by bacteria in the mouth, it should not be passed from person to person.
I am so happy I found Premier Family Care in Gilbert. It was my first time to their practice, and I will be their... patient while I reside in Gilbert.Everyone was so friendly and professional. I was greeted with a smile when I walked in. I met Jamie and Michelle. I then met my Dental hygienist Charlotte who is incredible. At the end of my appointment I saw Dr. Birch who made me feel at ease. My experience with everyone was wonderful. I have already convinced my boyfriend to make an appointment at Premier Family Dental Care.Thank you! Ursula Kread more
Large tonsil stones can cause swollen tonsils and give you trouble swallowing. Tonsil stones can also sometimes trigger infections.
When the Lamberts started putting the vaguely medical sounding "halitosis" in their ads, they framed it as a health condition that was keeping people from being their very best selves. Inglis-Arkell describes the campaign’s direction:
"This is going to be the death of me", I thought as I filled the pot with bottled water. I didn’t have a sink in my apartment, and even if I did, I wasn’t sure I trusted the landlord or the city enough to drink either of their water. The small red light on the hot plate glared at me from the fold-out counter as I contemplated how I had never known anything other than life in the city. The honking horns, flashing neon lights, and endless crowds were my nightly companions. There was no escaping the noise of the city.
Know how you can contact your healthcare provider if you have questions, especially after office hours or on weekends. Online Medical Reviewer: Jessica Gotwals RN BSN MPH © 2000-2023 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions. Find a location Find a provider Make an appointment Login to MyChart patient portal Refer a patient Diseases and Conditions Bad Breath (Halitosis) StayWell Disclaimer | Manage Cookie Preferences | Do Not Sell My Personal Information Online Privacy Statement Policies and Notices Copyright And Healthcare Disclaimer Website Terms And Conditions Of Use Halitosis Can Be a Symptom of a Serious Disease Home Blog Halitosis Can Be A Symptom Of A Serious Disease
Halitosis, or bad breath, can have a significant impact on oral health and social interactions. It is caused by a variety of factors, including poor oral hygiene, gum disease, and certain medical conditions. Maintaining good oral hygiene, using mouthwash, and incorporating natural remedies can help prevent and treat bad breath.