The Hidden Health Risks of Halitosis: Understanding the Underlying Causes
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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Spicy foods can also cause bad breath as they can increase the production of stomach acid, leading to acid reflux. Acid reflux can cause a sour taste in the mouth and contribute to bad breath. It's best to avoid these foods if you're concerned about maintaining fresh breath.
Smoking is not only harmful to your overall health but also to your oral health. Smoking can cause bad breath, stained teeth, and gum disease. The chemicals in tobacco products can dry out the mouth and decrease saliva production, leading to an increase in bacteria growth and bad breath.
If you are experiencing bad breath of any kind, book an appointment with your dentist so you can receive the right information to treat your specific case. Practice Closed Temporarily, Responding to the COVID-19 Pandemic Your Guide to Teeth Whitening Recent Posts Types of Teeth Stains & How to Remove Them What To Eat After a Dental Implant How Long Does Dental Freezing Last? What Are the Best Painkillers for Toothaches? How Long to Leave Fluoride Varnish on Teeth Categories Brushing & Flossing Dental Emergencies Dental Health Dentures Emergency Dental Care Family General Dentistry Implants Kids Dental Care News Oral Health Orthodontics Teeth Whitening Tips TMJ Uncategorized Veneers
The Role of Diet in Preventing Bad Breath
Halitosis is the medical terminology for bad breath. It can be due to multiple physiological or psychological causes. The most common cases of halitosis occur due to certain ingredients in the food that have a strong smell. These ingredients include garlic, onion, cheese, alcohol, etc. Bad breath caused by these substances is short-lasting and can be lessened by employing various techniques. However, bad breath caused by any physiological abnormality or psychological reason can be long-lasting and affects your social life if it persists consistently.
Here are characteristic bad breath odors associated with some of these illnesses:
In case the foul smell is caused due to poor oral hygiene or eating certain food items, it can be termed as manageable. Brushing twice a day and using floss, and interdental cleaner, to clean food particles, plaque, and other debris from various parts of the mouth can help. Such patients should ensure they do not sleep with dentures in their mouth and use antibacterial mouthwash along with regular brushing before wearing the dentures back in the morning. The patient needs to stop chewing tobacco and smoking cigarettes as well. Most importantly, cracked, infected teeth and gum diseases should be treated quickly.
Sometimes bad breath could be temporarily a problem also. When you drink or eat foods that contain garlic, onion or alcohol, you are more likely to have bad breath. Smoking is another way that can make the mouth dry leading to bad breath.
Breath mints and gum can also help alleviate bad breath from the throat. These products stimulate saliva production, which helps wash away bacteria and food particles. However, it is important to choose sugar-free options to avoid promoting tooth decay.
Breathe Easy with These Effective Halitosis Cures and Remedies
Drinking water throughout the day helps keep your mouth moist and promotes saliva production. It also helps rinse away any food particles that may be stuck between your teeth or along the gumline. Additionally, water can help dilute any strong odors in your mouth, reducing the likelihood of bad breath.
Many individuals with bad breath may be unaware they have it, or their signs and symptoms may only be temporary. The odor often depends upon the source or underlying cause of the bad breath.
Some recommended toothpastes for fighting halitosis include Colgate Total Advanced Fresh + Whitening Toothpaste, Crest Pro-Health Advanced Deep Clean Toothpaste, and Sensodyne Pronamel Fresh Breath Enamel Toothpaste. These toothpastes contain a combination of fluoride, antimicrobial agents, tartar control ingredients, and freshening agents to combat bad breath.
Halitosis is the condition of having a bad breath. Some common causes of bad breath are-
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