The benefits of tongue scraping and other oral care practices
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Sinus infections and allergies can cause post-nasal drip, which is when excess mucus drips down the back of the throat. This can lead to a foul odor and bad breath. Treating the underlying sinus infection or allergies can help alleviate bad breath.
Bad breath is primarily caused by bacteria that reside in our mouths. These bacteria break down food particles and release sulfur compounds, which are responsible for the unpleasant odor associated with bad breath. Poor oral hygiene, such as not brushing or flossing regularly, allows these bacteria to thrive and produce more sulfur compounds.
The team from the BBC TV series 'Trust me I’m a doctor' spoke to dentists about how to spot and avoid bad breath. Watch the video below for their tips: All content within this column is provided for general information only, and should not be treated as a substitute for the medical advice of your own doctor or any other health care professional. The BBC is not responsible or liable for any diagnosis made by a user based on the content of this site. The BBC is not liable for the contents of any external internet sites listed, nor does it endorse any commercial product or service mentioned or advised on any of the sites. Always consult your own GP if you're in any way concerned about your health.
The Role of Diet in Preventing Bad Breath
To use a tongue scraper effectively, start at the back of your tongue and gently scrape forward. Rinse the scraper after each pass to remove any debris. Repeat this process several times, covering the entire surface of your tongue. Be careful not to scrape too hard or you may cause irritation or discomfort. After using a tongue scraper, rinse your mouth thoroughly with water or mouthwash to remove any loosened debris.
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Keep the mouth moist by drinking water and chewing sugarless gum or sugar-free hard candy to stimulate the production of saliva. Mouthwash may temporarily mask bad breath odors, but it may not treat the underlying cause.
Visit your dentist on a regular basis. Regular checkups can find problems, such as gum disease, infections, and dry mouth. If you have bad breath and the dentist can’t find a cause, you may be referred to your primary healthcare provider for more follow-up.
Bad breath can be a side effect of diabetes. Because the body might have a hard time processing sugars for energy, the body can try to break down more fats, which leads to the production of ketones. The smell is similar to eating a low-carb diet, but unlike a low carb diet, diabetes is likely to lead to a toxic buildup of ketones if not properly treated.
Antibiotics. Medications may help, but they have side effects and can’t fix what’s causing your tonsil stones.Surgical removal. If your tonsil stones are unusually large or causing problems, your doctor might remove them.Tonsillectomy. If tonsil stones are a long-term problem, you might need to have your tonsils taken out.Cryptolysis. This uses a laser or a radiofrequency wand to scar your tonsils, making tonsil stones less likely.Tonsil Stone Home Remedies
Also see a doctor or dentist if bad breath develops after taking a new medication, after recent dental surgery, or if any other symptoms develop that are of concern.
The impact of bad breath goes beyond just the physical symptoms. It can also have a significant impact on mental health and self-esteem. People with halitosis may feel self-conscious and avoid social interactions or intimate relationships due to fear of judgment or embarrassment. This can lead to feelings of isolation and low self-esteem.
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When to See a Doctor for Halitosis: Serious Underlying Causes and Treatment Options
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.