The Importance of Oral Hygiene in Maintaining Fresh Breath
Dry mouth is one of the leading causes of halitosis and can be the result of stress, medications, radiation or chemotherapy, tobacco or recreational drug use, and autoimmune diseases such as Sjorgren’s syndrome.
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Eating food high in fibre can help promote digestion which reduces the likelihood of acid reflux happening. Additionally, food high in fibre can keep you feeling full which may help manage weight.
Saliva helps displace bacteria in the mouth that causes bad odors. When you have dry mouth, odor-causing bacteria is not washed away by saliva, resulting in bad breath. This is why most people have "morning breath;" your saliva production decreases when you are sleeping causing dry mouth and bad breath.
If you prefer natural remedies, there are several essential oils and herbs that can help freshen your breath. These natural ingredients have antimicrobial properties that can kill bacteria in the mouth. Here are some essential oils and herbs that can be effective in combating bad breath:
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is another common cause of halitosis. When plaque builds up on the teeth and gums, it can lead to inflammation and infection. This can result in an unpleasant odor coming from the mouth. Certain medical conditions such as dry mouth, sinus infections, and respiratory tract infections can also contribute to bad breath.
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Even if food isn’t naturally smelly, it can become smelly if it’s left in your mouth too long. If you’re not cleaning your mouth well enough, food residue can rot in your mouth, causing very bad breath. This is particularly common for people who don’t floss and have residue stuck between their teeth.
In some cases, medical treatments may be necessary to effectively treat tonsil stones and halitosis.
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.
In most cases, halitosis can be treated and prevented through good oral hygiene practices and lifestyle changes. However, there are instances where bad breath may be a sign of a more serious underlying condition.
You can also implement the use of a water pick. You can mix water and mouthwash into the container and flush out your tonsil stones that way. This method is a little easier and also shouldn’t affect your gag reflex as bad as the q-tip might. It is also good for knocking out loose bacteria and food particles that may be hidden inside your tonsils.
Drinking green tea can also be beneficial for combating bad breath. Green tea contains polyphenols, which have been shown to have antimicrobial properties that can help kill bacteria in the mouth.
Disclaimer- The last three remedies might not be safe for several patients. It is best to consult with the doctor first before undertaking the last three remedies.
Bad breath, medically called halitosis, can result from poor dental health habits and may be a sign of other health problems. Bad breath can also be made worse by the types of foods you eat and other unhealthy lifestyle habits. You can take steps to prevent and treat halitosis, at home and with the help of your dentist or doctor.
Halitosis vs. normal bad breath: What's the difference?
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