At Premier Family Dental in Gilbert, we know there are a lot of people who suffer from tonsil stones. What are these malicious white rocks in the back of your throat? Well, have you ever brushed your teeth to what you would consider perfection and even used mouthwash, but somehow your breath is still funky? Well, these stones in the back of your throat are the culprit. They contain large amounts of bacteria and are the leading cause of bad breath.
Maintaining good oral hygiene is the best way to prevent tonsil stones. Brush and floss regularly, and use mouthwash to help kill bacteria in your mouth.
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Introduction
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.
Bad breath can happen to anyone. The American Dental Association reports that about half of adults in the US have or will have to deal with bad breath at some point in their lifetimes.
Food particles often remain trapped between the mouth’s soft tissues and dentures. The patient may not even realize the presence of debris until the dentures are removed for cleaning. Thus, it is advisable to remove the same before sleeping and opt for an antibacterial mouthwash gargle.
Imaging tests, such as X-rays or CT scans, may be used to get a more detailed view of the tonsils and confirm the presence of tonsil stones.
While some treatments for halitosis can be done at home, the dentist can be a great source of advice and information. If you’re having trouble treating halitosis, visit Turtle Creek Dental Associates and put an end to bad breath. Your dentist will give you a thorough examination to determine the cause of your bad breath, and help you take steps to end it. (214) 953-0906 3131 Turtle Creek Blvd, Suite 1000, Dallas, TX 75219 Notice of Privacy Practices Privacy Policy Terms of Use
The Science Behind Bad Breath
For decades after Listerine first hit the market in the 1880s, it was kind of a jack-of-all trades product. Originally invented as a surgical antiseptic (and named after the founding father of antiseptics, Dr. Joseph Lister), its uses were varied—they including foot cleaning, floor scrubbing and gonorrhea treating.
The first stop when you have halitosis is usually your dentist. If your dentist determines you have a healthy mouth, you will likely be referred to a physician to look for an underlying health problem. If you have periodontal disease, you may see a periodontist, a dentist who specializes in gum disease and dental implants. If you have braces, it's like your bad breath is caused by food getting stuck in them. You may see your orthodontist for an adjustment. Bad breath in babies or young children may be a sign of infection or undiagnosed medical problems. Consult a child's pediatrician or dentist if an infant or young child has bad breath.
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.
[vi] 2015 kidney disease statistics, American Kidney Fund http://www.kidneyfund.org/assets/pdf/kidney-disease-statistics.pdf
If you want to prevent bad breath caused by dry mouth, follow a strict high-level hygiene routine. Brushing and flossing multiple times a day can keep odour causing bacteria levels low, keeping breath fresh. Additionally, avoiding smoking, alcohol, and caffeine can reduce the buildup of bacteria and lingering odours.
Our body’s ability to sense chemicals is another chemosensory mechanism that contributes to our senses of smell and taste. In this system, thousands of free nerve endings especially on the moist surfaces of the eyes, nose, mouth, and throat identify sensations like the sting of ammonia, the coolness of menthol, and the heat of chili peppers.
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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!