The three main ways to prevent bad breath is to brush and floss teeth twice daily, use a tongue scraper to get rid of bacteria on the tongue and visit your dentist regularly. However, bad breath, also called halitosis, affects many Canadians even with proper oral hygiene practices. However, it is possible to treat and in some cases, prevent entirely.
Those who would like to professionally check the quality of their breath can do so with a halimeter. This is a device that resembles a breathalyzer in appearance and operation. All you have to do is blow air into it and it will give you a clear indication of how much undesirable volatile sulfur compounds are in your breath.
.
Medical Conditions and Bad Breath: A Closer Look at GERD, Sinusitis, and Other Culprits
Certain medications can also cause bad breath as a side effect. These medications may affect saliva production or alter the balance of bacteria in the mouth, leading to halitosis. Examples of medications that commonly cause bad breath include certain antidepressants, antihistamines, and diuretics.
If you have tonsil stones, you probably want to get rid of that sulfur odor from your throat, and there are many ways to do so.
Tonsillectomy is the surgical removal of both tonsils. A tonsillectomy may be performed in cases of recurrent tonsillitis, or treat sleep apnea and some speech disorders.
For patients who suffer from dry mouth (xerostomia), artificial saliva may be prescribed by a dentist. Health News Could Cellphones Be Harming Men's Sperm? U.S. Infant Mortality Rate Climbs for First Time in 20 Years Playing Pro Football May Shorten Players' Lives, Study Finds Simple Antibiotic Switch for Pneumonia Patients Could Prevent Hospital Infection New A-Fib Ablation Therapy Benefits Women as Much as Men More Health News »
To guarantee the enjoyment of adequate oral health, it is advisable to visit the dentist frequently, since the development of an oral pathology can trigger the appearance of other aggravating elements in the mouth, such as halitosis.
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.
Flossing is another essential step in maintaining fresh breath. It helps remove plaque and food debris from between your teeth and along the gumline, where a toothbrush cannot reach. Flossing should be done at least once a day, preferably before bedtime.
The link between diet and bad breath, and how to make dietary changes
However, improper oral hygiene is not the only cause of halitosis formation. This troublesome condition may also occur as a result of using dentures or braces. The hard-to-reach areas around these fillings are difficult to reach with a toothbrush or dental floss, which is why bacteria that cause bad breath thrive there. Other common causes of halitosis include: diabetes, kidney disease and thyroid disease, infections of the sinuses, throat or tonsils, dry mouth, improper eating habits (drinking large amounts of alcohol, smoking, starving oneself), taking certain medications (mainly antidepressants, painkillers and diuretics).
Smoking and alcohol consumption are two habits that can contribute to bad breath. Smoking not only leaves a distinct odor on the breath but also dries out the mouth. This creates an ideal environment for bacteria to thrive and can lead to chronic bad breath.
Is it OK to fly when you've got sinusitis? How about going to work? WebMD helps you decide what's right and wrong when you're all stuffed up.
Your liver is also supposed to filter out toxins. And like the kidneys, when it’s not doing its job, the result can be a toxic buildup that you can smell. The type of breath related to liver disease is called fetor hepaticus, and it’s usually described as a musty smell. If you have this type of bad breath, you need to talk to a doctor.
Dentists can diagnose halitosis through oral exams and other diagnostic tests. They will examine your mouth for signs of gum disease, tooth decay, or other oral health issues that may be contributing to bad breath. They may also ask about your medical history and any medications you are taking to determine if there are any underlying causes of halitosis.
In addition to good oral hygiene, there are other steps you can take to prevent bad breath. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help prevent dry mouth. Avoiding foods that can cause bad breath, such as garlic and onions, can also help keep your breath fresh. Quitting smoking and tobacco use is another important step in improving oral health and breath.