Introduction
How Does Food Affect Breath?Why Do Poor Habits Cause Bad Breath?What Health Problems Are Associated With Bad Breath?What Can I Do to Prevent Bad Breath?Who Treats Bad Breath?What Products Can I Use to Get Rid of Bad Breath?
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Infections in the mouth, including gum and bone disease, can contribute to bad breath. The bacteria that causes gum and bone disease or infections, like a dental abscess, often has a very strong odor.
[vi] 2015 kidney disease statistics, American Kidney Fund http://www.kidneyfund.org/assets/pdf/kidney-disease-statistics.pdf
Daily brushing and flossing, and regular professional cleanings, will normally take care of unpleasant breath. And don't forget your often overlooked tongue as a culprit for bad breath. Bacterial plaque and food debris also can accumulate on the back of the tongue. The tongue's surface is extremely rough and bacteria can accumulate easily in the cracks and crevices.
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Your diet can play a significant role in preventing bad breath. Certain foods and drinks can contribute to bad breath, while others can help freshen your breath. Here are some foods and drinks to be aware of:
Avoiding tobacco and alcohol can also help prevent tonsil stones and bad breath. Both tobacco and alcohol can dry out the mouth, creating an environment that is conducive to bacterial growth.
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In some cases, bad breath may be a symptom of an underlying medical condition. Conditions such as gum disease, sinus infections, respiratory infections, and acid reflux can all cause bad breath. If you have persistent bad breath despite practicing good oral hygiene, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying health issues.
Let’s get one thing straight right off the bat: no one is claiming that Listerine invented bad breath. Human mouths have stunk for millennia, and there are ancient breath freshening solutions to prove it. But, as Esther Inglis-Arkell writes at io9, in more modern days, advertisements for Listerine transformed halitosis from a bothersome personal imperfection into an embarrassing medical condition that urgently required treatment. Treatment that—conveniently—the company wanted to sell.
Respiratory issues can also be a cause of bad breath. Sinus infections, for example, can lead to post-nasal drip, where mucus from the sinuses drips down the back of the throat and contributes to bad breath. Other respiratory conditions such as bronchitis or lung infections can also cause halitosis.
Natural remedies for halitosis, including herbs and essential oils
Chronic diseases can also contribute to bad breath. Conditions such as diabetes, kidney disease, and liver disease can cause changes in the body's metabolism, leading to the production of certain chemicals that can cause halitosis. Additionally, dry mouth, which is a common symptom of many chronic diseases, can also contribute to bad breath.
Doctors may recommend antibiotics. It helps lower the bacteria count, leading to tonsil stones development. However, the biofilms or hardened structures of the stones can resist antibiotics.
[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/
Ignoring tonsil stones and halitosis can have several potential complications. Untreated tonsil stones can lead to chronic bad breath, which can have a negative impact on social interactions and self-esteem. The persistent presence of tonsil stones can also contribute to recurrent infections in the throat and tonsils.