Researchers leading a recent study found that 75% of children and adults with volatile sulfur compounds in their breath had undiagnosed tonsil stones. So, that rotten-egg smell in your breath comes from bacteria growing in and around your tonsil stone.
Halitosis is an oral health problem where the main symptom is bad smelling breath. In most cases, finding the cause of the bad breath is the first step toward treating this preventable condition.
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Bad breath, also called halitosis, can be embarrassing, especially when other people comment on it, making you feel self-conscious about talking or even smiling. But chronic bad breath can also be a sign of a larger problem. Most cases of bad breath occur after a meal with onions or other ingredients with strong odors, or after going a long time without brushing. These cases are resolved by brushing or gargling with mouthwash. Chronic halitosis, on the other hand, occurs frequently and can only be temporarily relieved with basic hygiene. This is because chronic bad breath doesn’t exist on its own; it’s often a symptom of a more serious problem and cannot be resolved without the proper treatment. Poor oral hygiene habits: infrequent brushing, not flossing and not rinsing with mouthwash can lead to excessive, odor-causing bacteria in the mouth Chronic illnesses: poorly controlled diabetes can cause a buildup of sugar, which attracts bacteria, while kidney failure can cause a fishy smell in the mouth Medications: Antidepressants, diuretics and other medications that cause dry mouth can reduce your saliva production, making it more hospitable to bacteria Gum disease or infection: whether at the gum line or in the tooth itself, periodontitis and other infections in the mouth can leave an unpleasant taste and a bad odor in your mouth What are the remedies for bad breath?
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Tooth decay, also known as cavities, can also cause bad breath. When bacteria in the mouth break down sugars and carbohydrates from food, they produce acids that can erode tooth enamel and lead to cavities. These cavities can harbor bacteria and food particles, resulting in bad breath.
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If you or others notice this type of bad breath, it’s important to talk to a doctor right away.
Smoking is not only harmful to overall health but also contributes to bad breath from the throat. The chemicals in cigarettes can dry out the mouth, reducing saliva production and creating an environment for bacteria to thrive. Additionally, smoking can leave a lingering odor on the breath that is difficult to mask.
Poor oral hygiene is one of the main causes of bad breath. When we don't brush and floss regularly, food particles can get trapped in our teeth and gums, leading to the growth of bacteria. These bacteria release sulfur compounds that produce an unpleasant odor. Additionally, plaque buildup on the teeth can also contribute to bad breath.
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.
Americans spend more than $1 billion a year on over the counter halitosis products, many of which are ineffective because they only mask the problem.
One of the most common causes of bad breath is the buildup of germs and bacteria inside your mouth. When it is not cleaned regularly, over time a condition known as halitosis or persistent bad breath ensues. This oral condition is something everyone can do without, as it is particularly a nuisance to people you regularly come into contact with.
So, if you have terrible, incurably bad-smelling breath that you can’t get rid of through brushing, you just might have a tonsil stone.
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Improperly cleaned dentures can also harbor odor-causing bacteria and food particles. If you wear removable dentures, take them out at night and clean them thoroughly before replacing them.
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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.