Oil pulling is an ancient Ayurvedic practice that has gained popularity in recent years for its numerous health benefits, including fresh breath. It involves swishing oil around in your mouth for a few minutes to remove bacteria and toxins.
The Importance of Oral Hygiene in Preventing Bad Breath
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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?
Tonsil stones can cause bad breath due to the interaction between the stones and bacteria in the mouth. The tonsils are part of the immune system and contain small pockets called crypts. These crypts can trap bacteria and debris, providing an environment for the formation of tonsil stones.
To alleviate bad breath caused by food and beverages, it is essential to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Water helps wash away food particles and bacteria in the mouth and throat. Chewing sugar-free gum can also stimulate saliva production and freshen breath.
Alcohol is pretty drying, which is why people often feel as if they need to drink a gallon (or two) of water after a night out. The drying effects of alcohol can also contribute to bad breath.
The medical condition dry mouth (also called xerostomia) also can cause bad breath. Saliva is necessary to moisten the mouth, neutralize acids produced by plaque, and wash away dead cells that build up on the tongue, gums, and cheeks. If not removed, these cells decompose and can cause bad breath. Dry mouth may be a side effect of various medications, salivary gland problems, or continuous breathing through the mouth. In fact, morning breath is worse for people who sleep with their mouths open.
Including probiotic-rich foods in your diet, such as yogurt and fermented vegetables, can also help promote a healthy balance of bacteria in your mouth. However, it's important to note that more research is needed to fully understand the role of probiotics in preventing bad breath.
Stress and anxiety can have a negative impact on oral health and breath. When we are stressed or anxious, our bodies produce more cortisol, a stress hormone that can reduce saliva production. This can result in dry mouth and contribute to bad breath.
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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.
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Are you avoiding social meetings or hanging out with friends just because of your breath stink? Bad breath can be not only due to oral hygiene but also tonsil stones.
Probiotics, such as yogurt or supplements, may also be beneficial in preventing tonsil stones and bad breath. Probiotics help promote a healthy balance of bacteria in the mouth and throat, reducing the risk of bacterial overgrowth and the formation of tonsil stones.
Most of the time, bad breath can be cured and prevented with proper oral hygiene. It is rarely life-threatening, and the prognosis is good. However, bad breath may be a complication of a medical disorder that needs to be treated. Rosenberg, Mel. "Bad Breath." UpToDate.com. September 2019.
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.