Saliva is a naturally occurring substance in our body that keeps the mouth, esophagus and digestive tract clean. Think of it as engine oil for your mouth and digestive system. Breaking your fast in the morning regenerates saliva so that the digestive system can continue to do its job. Skipping breakfast brings this entire process to a halt, introducing certain compounds in your mouth that not only lead to dryness but also bad breath.
Stopping bad breath in time is essential both to regain optimal oral health and for the mental well-being of the person who suffers from it. There are many situations in which this condition causes embarrassment, discomfort and even anxiety.
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[iii] Aylıkcı BU, Çolak H. Halitosis: From diagnosis to management. Journal of Natural Science, Biology, and Medicine. 2013;4(1):14-23. doi:10.4103/0976-9668.107255. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3633265/
Accumulation of food debris in the oral cavityDental malpositionsPeriodontal diseases, such as gingivitis or periodontitisPhlegmonTooth decayFixed dentures or orthodontic appliancesXerostomia, commonly known as dry mouthIngestion of coffee, alcohol and tobacco
Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial in preventing bad breath. Brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing daily are essential habits to keep your mouth clean and fresh. When brushing your teeth, it is important to use the proper technique. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Brush all surfaces of your teeth, including the front, back, and chewing surfaces. Don't forget to brush your tongue as well, as bacteria can accumulate on its surface and contribute to bad breath.
Psychogenic halitosis generally has no apparent cause. In this case, the person constantly feels lousy breath coming from their mouth, but another person or any diagnostic test does not detect it. This type can also be associated with other psychologic abnormalities.
Without correct and regular brushing and flossing, and routine dental exams, food stays in the mouth. This is a breeding ground for bacteria. Food that collects on the teeth, gums, and tongue may rot. This causes an unpleasant odor and taste in the mouth.
We hope to never have to get to this point since prevention is much better than cure, but sometimes tonsil stones can form on their own and need to be removed before they start to stink.
While using mints or sugar-free gum can help to mask the odor, the most effective way to improve bad breath caused by tobacco products is to quit smoking or using other tobacco products. If you’re ready to quit, your dentist and hygienist can connect you to quitting resources and provide support.
Tonsil stones can cause bad breath due to the interaction between the stones and bacteria in the mouth. The tonsils are part of the immune system and contain small pockets called crypts. These crypts can trap bacteria and debris, providing an environment for the formation of tonsil stones.
The Benefits of Using Tongue Scrapers for Halitosis
By taking care of our oral health and incorporating these natural remedies into our daily routine, we can enjoy the benefits of fresh breath and improve our overall well-being. So why wait? Start incorporating these DIY remedies today and experience the confidence and freshness that comes with having a healthy mouth.
Fennel seedsClovesCardamomCinnamonGrated gingerSpearmintPeppermintParsleyRosemaryThyme10 Ways To Fight Bad Breath
How to tell if your breath smells bad
If dry mouth is the cause of your bad breath, try to drink more water throughout the day, and as soon as you wake up. This will help keep bacteria from sticking to your teeth and causing odors. Other beverages like soda, coffee, or alcohol can actually make the problem worse, so swap those types of drinks in favor of water if you’re concerned about dry mouth.
People who suffer from bad breath want to know how to get rid of bad breath. Some examples of measures an individual can do to prevent or get rid of bad breath include the following: Specific medical treatment to cure bad breath depends upon the cause.In patients who suffer from dry mouth (xerostomia), artificial saliva may be prescribed by a dentist.Dentists can also prescribe special toothpaste and mouthwash that can improve the symptoms of bad breath. Follow all instructions provided by the dental or medical professional, and use any prescribed mouthwash or toothpaste as directed.If the patient's dentist determines that the bad breath odor is not of oral origin, the patient may be referred to a physician.If the odor is due to gum disease, the dentist may refer the patient to a periodontist, who specializes in treating gum conditions.
If so, avoid foods like spinach, peppercorns, sesame seeds, popcorn, and other foods that can easily become stuck in your mouth. Check out my article on tonsil stone diet tips here.