For stones that cannot be visualized, an MRI or CT scan can help make a definitive diagnosis. SLIDESHOW Mouth Problems: TMJ, Canker Sores, Painful Gums and More See Slideshow
Along with bad breath, other symptoms of tonsilloliths are ear pain, swollen tonsils, an accumulation of white-colored debris, as well as trouble swallowing.
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Sinus infection (sinusitis) is caused by allergies, infection, and chemicals or other irritants of sinuses. Signs and symptoms include headache, fever, and facial tenderness, pressure, or pain. Treatments of sinus infections are generally with antibiotics and at times, home remedies.
Doctors have three methods for testing for bad breath. They can assess it themselves by sniffing one of the following: the patient’s breath just 5cm (2in) from the nose of the doctor, the contents of a spoon which has been scraped across the top of the tongue, unwaxed floss which has been passed between the back teeth or a petri dish containing the patient’s saliva that’s been left in an incubator at 37C (99F) for five minutes.
An infected tooth is another place where anaerobic bacteria can build up. An infected tooth is such a good place for bacteria to collect that it can actually serve as the jumping-off point for other infections of the bone, sinuses, lungs, or brain.
Choosing the right toothpaste is important in fighting halitosis. Here are some ingredients to look for in a toothpaste:
Your dentist or periodontist may tell you to use an antimicrobial mouth rinse. You may also be told to brush your tongue gently each time you brush your teeth. This will help remove odor-causing bacteria.
Including probiotic-rich foods in your diet, such as yogurt and fermented vegetables, can also help promote a healthy balance of bacteria in your mouth. However, it's important to note that more research is needed to fully understand the role of probiotics in preventing bad breath.
You get tonsil stones when deposits of bacteria sit inside your tonsils for a long time. It turns into this crystalized white or yellow rock. There is a chance you have actually accidentally bitten one. Have you ever had something randomly appear in your mouth? You think it is leftover food so you chew on it. Then you are met with this absolutely horrendous taste in your mouth. Nine times out of ten that was a tonsil stone. I don’t recommend this but if you cut one open and smell. You will see why it causes such horrible breath.
Diabetes is a chronic condition characterized by high levels of sugar (glucose) in the blood. The two types of diabetes are referred to as type 1 (insulin dependent) and type 2 (non-insulin dependent). Symptoms of diabetes include increased urine output, thirst, hunger, and fatigue. Treatment of diabetes depends on the type.
Finding and treating an existing health condition may get rid of the bad breath.
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Liver disease – it can be inherited or caused by different factors that harm your liver, especially alcohol as well as cirrhosis, hepatitis A, B, C, D and E. Symptoms include fatigue, nausea, vomiting, weight loss and yellowing of the skin. Bad breath also seems to be quite the common symptom of liver disease. The liver detoxifies the body by expelling toxins, but diseases that affect its function prevent the liver from doing its job. The accumulation of toxins causes a foul odor in your breath.
There are several natural remedies that can help combat bad breath. Chewing on herbs such as parsley, mint, or cilantro can help freshen your breath. These herbs contain natural compounds that can neutralize odors and leave your breath smelling fresh.
Dr. Nguyen has served on the Virginia Board of Dentistry and has many achievements such as: Invisalign Premier and Teen Provider, Pre-Fellow with Academy of General Dentistry, Graduate of Aesthetic Continuum, Engel Institute for Dental Implant Training, WaveOne Endodontic Training, HD President’s Club.
If the dentist determines that the cause of bad breath is not related to oral health, they may refer you to a doctor for further evaluation. The doctor can assess your overall health and determine if there are any underlying medical conditions that need to be addressed.