The benefits of tongue scraping and other oral care practices
Everyone knows how embarrassing bad breath can be. It can even cause anxiety because you can’t always tell what other people are noticing. There are countless products out there aimed at fixing the problem. Gum, mints, mouthwash, and other products can be found in any store. Approximately 30% of the population complains of some sort of bad breath. But what causes bad breath, and how can you avoid it? Most problems can be solved by keeping your mouth and teeth clean is a simple solution. However, sometimes bad breath is an indication of a more serious health condition, and you’ll need to talk to one of the doctors at Scott Edwards DDS.
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Poor dental hygiene, chronic sinus issues, inflamed tonsillitis, and large tonsils may contribute to a build-up of this hardened material.
Antibacterial mouthwash is excellent for helping you mask bad breath while also killing the bacteria inside your mouth that contribute to it. For fresh breath anytime, keep a travel-sized bottle in your purse, briefcase, or desk drawer.
Bad breath, or halitosis, can have a significant impact on social interactions and relationships. It is important to address this condition not only for the sake of social stigma but also for overall oral health and well-being. Poor oral hygiene, diet, gastrointestinal problems, respiratory issues, medications, chronic diseases, and psychological effects can all contribute to bad breath. By understanding the causes and implementing appropriate prevention strategies and treatment options, individuals can manage their halitosis and improve their quality of life. It is important to seek professional help if self-care measures do not improve bad breath symptoms.
The Science Behind Bad Breath
These tiny abscesses are usually only a couple of millimeters wide, so it can be challenging to find them. Still, one of the most noticeable symptoms of tonsil stones is the rotten-egg smell of sulfur.
Disclaimer- The last three remedies might not be safe for several patients. It is best to consult with the doctor first before undertaking the last three remedies.
You have halitosis if you have bad breath, and a doctor is not needed to diagnose the condition. However, if your bad breath is chronic, if it does not go away with proper oral hygiene, or if you have other symptoms, you will need to see a doctor or dentist to diagnose the underlying cause.
An antiseptic mouthwash can help eliminate bacteria that cause bad breath. For dry mouth, your dentist might recommend artificial saliva. Ask your dentist about which product is best for you.
Chronic sinus infections and post-nasal drop often lead to bad breath, as do persistent throat infections. Some people suffer from infections in the stomach that travel up the esophagus into the mouth, leaving a bad smell. Severe acid reflux and GERD can cause a bad odor, and certain metabolic disorders emit unpleasant gases through the breath.
The alternative is to scrape your tongue with a special tongue cleaner. This method is also under assessment in the newest Cochrane review. Their last report found just two small trials looking at this method. They showed it can work, but that the effect is short-lived. They also highlight the risk of damaging the tongue by pressing too hard and to ensure that if you want to use a toothbrush to clean your tongue, you make sure that it’s a soft one.
Natural Remedies for Bad Breath
DIY Remedy #3: Apple Cider Vinegar
When to Seek Professional Help for Persistent Bad Breath from the Throat
You may need to see an oral specialist (periodontist) for treatment or your primary healthcare provider depending on the cause.
This condition originates mainly inside the oral cavity, either due to the accumulation of bacteria on the tongue or due to periodontal diseases, tobacco consumption, dental cavities, among others.