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.
Tonsil stones are generally not harmful and do not cause any health problems. However, they can cause bad breath and discomfort.
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People with larger tonsils are more prone to developing tonsil stones. The larger tonsils have more crevices and crypts, which can trap debris and lead to tonsil stone formation.
Antibiotics may be prescribed in cases where tonsil stones are accompanied by an infection. Antibiotics can help kill the bacteria causing the infection and reduce inflammation in the tonsils.
Having tonsil stones once might mean you will have to deal with it again in the future. But specific preventive measures can be taken. These steps are:
Using mouthwash can also help freshen breath by killing bacteria and neutralizing odors. Chewing sugar-free gum stimulates saliva production, which helps wash away bacteria and food particles. However, it is important to note that these products should not be used as a substitute for proper oral hygiene practices.
Here are characteristic bad breath odors associated with some of these illnesses:
Baking soda is a versatile ingredient that can be used for various purposes, including freshening breath. It helps to neutralize odors and can help remove plaque and stains from the teeth.
Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth may be a warning sign of gum (periodontal) disease. Gum disease is caused by the buildup of plaque on teeth. Bacteria cause toxins to form, which irritate the gums. If gum disease continues untreated, it can damage the gums and jawbone.
Coconut oil is commonly used for oil pulling due to its antimicrobial properties. Swishing coconut oil in the mouth for 10-15 minutes can help kill bacteria and freshen breath. It is important to note that oil pulling should not replace regular oral hygiene practices but can be used as a supplement to maintain good oral health.
No, halitosis is not contagious. Since halitosis is caused by bacteria in the mouth, it should not be passed from person to person.
Lemon water is not only refreshing but also has natural antibacterial properties that can help combat bad breath. The citric acid in lemons helps to stimulate saliva production, which can help to wash away bacteria and food particles in the mouth.
Terms of UseAbout the BBCPrivacy PolicyPrivacy PolicyCookiesCookiesAccessibility HelpParental GuidanceContact the BBCMake an editorial complaintBBC emails for youAdvertise with usCopyright © 2023 BBC. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking. oral health center/oral health a-z list/tonsil stones article Medical Author: John P. Cunha, DO, FACOEP Medical Editor: Charles Patrick Davis, MD, PhD Introduction What are tonsil stones? Causes & Risk Factors What are causes and risk factors of tonsil stones? Symptoms What are the symptoms of tonsil stones? Diagnosis How are tonsil stones diagnosed? Treatment What are the treatments for tonsil stones? Home Remedies How do you get rid of tonsil stones at home? Prognosis How long do tonsil stones last? Prevention How to prevent tonsil stones Tonsil stones can form when food, mucus, and bacteria get stuck in the craters of the tonsils.
Our body’s ability to sense chemicals is another chemosensory mechanism that contributes to our senses of smell and taste. In this system, thousands of free nerve endings especially on the moist surfaces of the eyes, nose, mouth, and throat identify sensations like the sting of ammonia, the coolness of menthol, and the heat of chili peppers.
On the contrary, pathologic halitosis is caused by oral diseases that promote the growth of bacteria, leading to chronic bad breath. Although other factors may also contribute, periodontal diseases, such as gingivitis or periodontitis, are the most common oral diseases that are pathological causes of halitosis.
As we mentioned earlier, you do not have to live with bad breath. There are various approaches to the treatment of bad breath, and the good news is that you can begin at home!
Besides food items, medical conditions like a build-up of calculus, gum diseases, dry mouth, poorly fitted dentures, acid reflux, and tonsil stones are often found to be some of the causes. Halitosis should not be left untreated because it can be one of the symptoms of severe problems like chronic sinus infections, bronchitis, diabetes, pneumonia, and even kidney-linked issues.