Dietary Changes to Combat Halitosis: Foods to Avoid and Foods to Eat
It is true that in a small percentage of cases bad breath is caused by a problem elsewhere in the body such as the ear, nose and throat, kidneys, lungs or intestines, but when this does happen it’s unusual for halitosis to be the only symptom.
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The team from the BBC TV series 'Trust me I’m a doctor' spoke to dentists about how to spot and avoid bad breath. Watch the video below for their tips: All content within this column is provided for general information only, and should not be treated as a substitute for the medical advice of your own doctor or any other health care professional. The BBC is not responsible or liable for any diagnosis made by a user based on the content of this site. The BBC is not liable for the contents of any external internet sites listed, nor does it endorse any commercial product or service mentioned or advised on any of the sites. Always consult your own GP if you're in any way concerned about your health.
1. Fluoride: Fluoride is a mineral that helps strengthen teeth and prevent cavities. It is an important ingredient to look for in a toothpaste, as cavities can contribute to bad breath.
Many don’t know how their diet can be one of the causes of bad breath. Eating a high-protein, low-carb diet can cause your metabolism to change because protein is harder for your body to digest. They tend to release sulfurous gases when they don’t metabolize. To avoid this, eat a more balanced and nutritious diet full of vegetables and herbs.
Drinking more water throughout the day helps keep the mouth hydrated and washes away bacteria and food particles. Avoiding foods and drinks that contribute to bad breath, such as garlic and coffee, can also help maintain fresh breath.
There are several over-the-counter products available that can help combat bad breath. Mouthwashes containing antibacterial agents like chlorhexidine or cetylpyridinium chloride can help kill bacteria and freshen breath. Breath mints or lozenges containing menthol or eucalyptus oil can also provide temporary relief from bad breath.
It is important to note that while natural remedies may provide temporary relief, they may not completely eliminate tonsil stones or halitosis. It is always best to consult with a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
Tonsil stones can last for weeks or even months if left untreated. However, they can be removed at home or by a doctor.
Maintaining good oral hygiene practices, such as brushing, flossing, and tongue scraping, is crucial in preventing halitosis. Natural remedies, dietary changes, probiotics, and oil pulling can also help freshen breath and improve oral health.
Smoking and tobacco use can have a detrimental effect on oral health and can cause bad breath. The chemicals in tobacco products can irritate the gums, leading to gum disease. Additionally, smoking can dry out the mouth and reduce saliva production, which can contribute to bad breath.
But hey, at least there’s a little less bad breath in the world now than there was 100 years ago. Laura Clark | | READ MORE
Medical conditions that can cause bad breath
Diabetes can cause bad breath for two different reasons; periodontal disease, and high levels of ketones in the blood.
They are friendly, professional and efficient, they use modern technology. My hygienist was awesome! Very gentle but... affective. My gums were not tender after the hygienist was done! They explain everything. Great experience.read more
Tonsil stones (also called tonsilloliths) form when bacteria and mucus get trapped and calcify in your tonsils' nooks and crannies, leaving a hard piece of matter and a bad taste in your throat. See a picture of Tonsil Stones and learn more about the health topic.
You can also see other signs of gum disease, such as red, swollen gums. Bleeding gums, even receding gums.