When you do not notice a drastic improvement in your breath after taking the above self-care steps, you need to seek professional help. Professional care for bad breath will include the following steps.
Respiratory issues can also be a cause of bad breath. Sinus infections, for example, can lead to post-nasal drip, where mucus from the sinuses drips down the back of the throat and contributes to bad breath. Other respiratory conditions such as bronchitis or lung infections can also cause halitosis.
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Good oral care,regular dental visits,stopping tobacco use/smoking, andavoiding certain foods can prevent most cases of bad breath. The prognosis for bad breath is generally good as bad breath is usually more of a nuisance rather than a serious medical condition.Most individuals with bad breath can treat and eliminate the condition on their own.Additionally, dentists and physicians can help with cases of chronic bad breath. Oral Health Resources Bad Breath: See How to Stop ItNatural Ways to Whiten Your Teeth Featured Centers What Are the Best PsA Treatments for You?Understanding Biologics 10 Things People With Depression Wish You Knew The American Dental Association, "Bad Breath (Halitosis)." Health Categories First Aid & Emergencies Topics A-Z eMedicineHealth About Us Privacy Terms of Use Advertising Policy Contact Us
There are a few health conditions outside the mouth that can contribute to bad breath. Because dental problems are far more likely to be the culprit, we always rule them out first. If your dentist rules out any dental problems as the source of your bad breath, you then likely need to look outside the mouth.
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
- Coffee and alcohol: These beverages can cause dry mouth, which can worsen bad breath.
Oral health, especially dental issues happen to be the main troublemaker when it comes to halitosis.
Phase I and II trials have already been conducted into killing the bacteria most often implicated in tooth decay. The substance has been trialled as a gel applied in a clinic and next it will be tested as a varnish, again applied in a clinic, but accompanied by strips which people can take home and apply to their teeth as a follow-up treatment. This opens up the possibility in the future for using similar methods to target the bacteria most often implicated in bad breath.
Tonsil stones are risk-free buildup that will go away on their own. However, the duration of tonsil stones can vary from person to person. They may go away or melt on their own in a short period, or they can also stay for weeks if they are deep in the throat and bacteria continue to grow on them. Besides, if proper oral hygiene is not performed, it may last for years and lead to a more serious problem, such as tonsillitis.
Large cavities and progressive gum disease both provide perfect hiding spots for large collections of bacteria. As cavities worsen, bacteria accumulate in actual holes in the teeth. When gum disease progresses, deep pockets develop between the tooth’s roots and the surrounding gum and jawbone. The deep pockets are breeding grounds for bacteria that become more dangerous as the pocket deepens.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease, otherwise known as acid reflux or heartburn, is a condition in which the contents of the stomach flow backward into the esophagus. The undigested food, bile, and stomach acids coming back into the esophagus can cause pain and discomfort and may lead to bad breath.
If you are taking medications and experiencing chronic bad breath, it is important to speak with your healthcare provider. They may be able to adjust your medication or recommend strategies to alleviate dry mouth and improve your breath.
Occasional bad breath is common and can be easily remedied by practicing good oral hygiene. However, chronic halitosis is a more persistent condition that requires further attention. Halitosis is often caused by underlying medical conditions or poor oral health habits that need to be addressed.
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A dentist will also examine your mouth for any signs of gum disease or other oral health issues that may be causing bad breath. They may recommend additional treatments or procedures to address these issues and improve your breath odor.
2. TheraBreath Fresh Breath Oral Rinse: This mouthwash is specifically formulated to target bad breath. It contains a patented oxygenating compound that neutralizes odor-causing bacteria. It is alcohol-free and has a mild mint flavor.
Chewing on herbs such as parsley and mint can also help freshen breath. These herbs contain natural compounds that can neutralize odors and provide a refreshing scent.