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.
Serious cases of gingivitis may need to be treated with a periodontist, who are specialists in treating gum disease and restoring bone and tissue loss because of it.
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It was also marketed to dentists as a way to kill germs in the mouth, but no one paid much attention until the 1920s. That's when, as Inglis-Arkell writes, the owner of the company, Jordan Wheat Lambert, and his son, Gerard, came up with a marketing plan that would forever change the dental aisle. The key was an old Latin phrase that had long dropped out of general usage and which, according to writers over at Cracked, meant “unpleasant breath.” A 1928 ad for Listerine reads in part: “No matter how charming you may be or how fond of you your friends are, you can not expect them to put up with halitosis (unpleasant breath) forever. They may be nice to you—but it is an effort.” Bettmann/CORBIS
The definition of bad breath, or halitosis, is an unpleasant smell coming from the mouth. Halitosis can occur on occasion, or it can be a chronic condition. It may be caused by foods a person eats, poor oral hygiene, diseases, or other factors.
Certain medical conditions can also contribute to halitosis. These include respiratory infections, sinusitis, diabetes, liver disease, and kidney disease. In these cases, treating the underlying condition is necessary to alleviate bad breath.
Halitosis, also known as bad breath, can be caused by various factors, some of which originate in the mouth, while others may stem from elsewhere in the body. Here are some of the most common reasons and causes of bad breath or halitosis:
In addition to being mindful of your diet, it is important to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Water helps keep your mouth hydrated and washes away food particles and bacteria that can contribute to bad breath.
In addition to regular brushing and flossing, it is important to visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and professional cleanings. Your dentist can identify any underlying dental issues that may be causing bad breath and provide appropriate treatment. They can also offer guidance on proper oral hygiene techniques and recommend products that can help freshen your breath.
Proper brushing technique involves gently brushing all surfaces of the teeth, including the front, back, and chewing surfaces. It is also important to brush your tongue to remove bacteria that can contribute to bad breath. Flossing helps remove plaque and food particles from between the teeth and along the gumline.
Breath tests can help determine the presence and severity of halitosis. These tests measure the levels of volatile sulfur compounds in the breath, which can indicate the presence of tonsil stones or other causes of bad breath.
Severe bad breath can have a variety of causes and it is important to try and identify the cause in order to get effective treatments. At JVR Dental in Walnut Grove, we know how important your oral health care is. That is why we have put together a list of some of the more popular causes for that.
It is also important to choose a mouthwash that does not contain alcohol, as alcohol can dry out the mouth and contribute to bad breath. Opting for an alcohol-free mouthwash can help maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in the mouth and reduce the risk of dry mouth.
Sinus infections and allergies can cause post-nasal drip, which is when excess mucus drips down the back of the throat. This can lead to a foul odor and bad breath. Treating the underlying sinus infection or allergies can help alleviate bad breath.
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is another common cause of halitosis. When plaque builds up on the teeth and gums, it can lead to inflammation and infection. This can result in an unpleasant odor coming from the mouth. Certain medical conditions such as dry mouth, sinus infections, and respiratory tract infections can also contribute to bad breath.
Dietary changes, staying hydrated, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are also important in preventing bad breath. Tongue scraping and other oral care practices can help remove bacteria and debris from the mouth. If bad breath persists despite practicing good oral hygiene and making lifestyle changes, it is important to seek professional treatment.
Bad breath bacteria loves the back of your tongue, because it’s an area that’s often neglected, allowing the stinky stuff to multiply. Use a toothbrush or a tongue scraper to clear them all out during your morning and evening hygiene routine.
Drinking green tea can also help prevent tonsil stones and bad breath. Green tea contains polyphenols, which have antimicrobial properties that can help kill bacteria in the mouth.