On the contrary, pathologic halitosis is caused by oral diseases that promote the growth of bacteria, leading to chronic bad breath. Although other factors may also contribute, periodontal diseases, such as gingivitis or periodontitis, are the most common oral diseases that are pathological causes of halitosis.
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On the other hand, there are foods that can actually help freshen breath. Fruits and vegetables, such as apples, carrots, and celery, can help stimulate saliva production and wash away bacteria and food particles that can cause bad breath. Additionally, drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help prevent dry mouth, which is another common cause of bad breath.
The main symptom of halitosis is a bad odor from the mouth. The odor can be worse in the morning or after smoking, drinking coffee, or eating certain foods, such as garlic.
Certain medical conditions, such as sinus infections, respiratory tract infections, and gastrointestinal issues, can cause chronic bad breath. A healthcare professional can help identify the underlying cause of bad breath and recommend appropriate treatment.
Treating gum disease is essential in improving bad breath. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings can help remove plaque and tartar buildup, reducing the risk of gum disease. Maintaining good oral hygiene practices, such as brushing and flossing regularly, is also crucial in preventing gum disease and halitosis.
Medical Treatments for Tonsil Stones and Halitosis
Drinking more water during the day can help, both by rinsing away food and preventing dryness in the mouth.
The UK health research body Cochrane is currently assembling a review of the scientific literature on interventions for bad breath. In their previous review of mouthwashes in 2008, the five best trials showed that if they contained anti-bacterials such as chlorhexidine and cetylpyridinium chloride, chlorine dioxide or zinc, they could reduce unpleasant smells to an extent. But the authors did call for more trials to be done. Hopefully this next review will be able to give more information about which mouthwashes to choose.
Bad dental habits can wreck your teeth. Teeth grinding, chewing on ice, playing sports without a mouth guard, and eating and drinking sugary foods and drinks are just a few bad habits that are bad for teeth. Giving nighttime baby bottles, opening things with your teeth, and chewing on pencils can also damage teeth and tissues in the mouth. Drinking red wine and white wine can erode enamel and stain teeth. Smoking, tobacco use, drinking coffee can all lead to tooth stains. Binge eating disorder leads to the consumption of large amounts of sugary food, which can lead to tooth decay. Purging exposes teeth to acids that can wear down enamel.
Certain prescription medications can also cause dry mouth, so if you believe this may be a possibility, check with the prescribing physician.
The marketing campaign was wildly successful. Even so, Lambert kept trying to sell the public on new uses for Listerine, making claims that it worked as toothpaste, deodorant and a cure for dandruff. But, with their no-longer-quite-so-stinky mouths, the people had spoken: Listerine was best as a mouthwash.
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Dr. Nguyen enjoys spending time with his wife and three daughters, staying active in the gym, and trying out new restaurants. When he isn’t at work, you can find him playing basketball, tennis, football, or hiking.
If you suspect that you have a tonsil stone, the first thing you could do is gargle with salt water, hydrogen peroxide, apple cider vinegar, or antiseptic mouthwash.
Take the Dental Health Quiz to test your IQ of oral hygiene, cavities, and common tongue and gum diseases. This quiz covers healthy mouths and teeth from brushing to flossing and everything in between check-ups!
Daily brushing and flossing, and regular professional cleanings, will normally take care of unpleasant breath. And don't forget your often overlooked tongue as a culprit for bad breath. Bacterial plaque and food debris also can accumulate on the back of the tongue. The tongue's surface is extremely rough and bacteria can accumulate easily in the cracks and crevices.