Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, can contribute to bad breath from the throat. Saliva plays a crucial role in washing away food particles and bacteria in the mouth and throat. When there is a lack of saliva production, bacteria can thrive and cause bad breath.
When you have a common cold or other respiratory infection, the mucous your body produces can be seen as a tasty meal for odor-causing bacteria in the mouth, which can lead to bad breath.
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Halitosis can also be caused by factors outside of the oral cavity, which are referred to as extraoral causes. While less common than intraoral causes, there are a number of non-oral diseases that can trigger bad breath.The following are some of the most common extraoral causes of halitosis:
Products specifically for dry mouth like Biotene, can be used to help prevent bad breath in these cases.
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There are also small monitors available which can detect certain gases, but the limitation here is that it only includes some gases and not others. Finally ‘gas chromatography’ – a technique to separate complex mixtures of gases – can measure the quantity of sulphur in the air, but involves specialised equipment that you won’t find in many doctors’ offices.
Some people find that rinsing their mouths with a mixture of water and baking soda helps neutralize odors and freshen their breath. Others prefer using essential oils like peppermint or tea tree oil as a natural mouthwash.
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Your diet can play a significant role in preventing bad breath. Certain foods and drinks can contribute to bad breath, while others can help freshen your breath. Here are some foods and drinks to be aware of:
Drinking green tea can also help prevent tonsil stones and bad breath. Green tea contains polyphenols, which have antimicrobial properties that can help kill bacteria in the mouth.
Sometimes, we eat something that causes bad breath. Peppers, onions, garlic, curries, cheese, and seafood are all culprits in causing bad breath shortly after eating.
You may need to see an oral specialist (periodontist) for treatment or your primary healthcare provider depending on the cause.
4. Refer You to Your Medical Doctor – When all oral causes of bad breath have been ruled out or repaired, we will work with your medical doctor to help you solve persistent bad breath. Some patients will need to see an ear, nose and throat specialist (ENT) to address chronic sinus or throat infections. Others need help from a gastroenterologist (GI specialist) for issues in the stomach and/or esophagus.
Freshen Up Your Breath with These Simple DIY Remedies
To prevent bad breath in children, it is important to establish good oral hygiene habits from an early age. This includes teaching them to brush their teeth twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting the dentist regularly for check-ups. Encouraging healthy eating habits and addressing any underlying dental or respiratory issues can also help prevent halitosis in children.
Imaging tests, such as X-rays or CT scans, may be used to get a more detailed view of the tonsils and confirm the presence of tonsil stones.
GERD is a common medical condition that can cause bad breath from the throat. The stomach acid that travels up the esophagus can reach the back of the throat, leaving a sour taste and foul odor. Treating GERD through lifestyle changes and medication can help alleviate bad breath.