Remember, rather than opting for a temporary solution like a mouth freshener; it is advisable to seek professional help and understand the root cause of the problem.
What we eat can also have a significant impact on our breath. Certain foods and drinks can cause bad breath due to their strong odors or because they are broken down by bacteria in the mouth. Foods such as garlic, onions, and spicy foods are notorious for causing halitosis. Additionally, beverages like coffee and alcohol can also contribute to bad breath.
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Introduction: The Surprising Causes of Chronic Bad Breath
Certain bacteria on the back of the tongue can interact with amino acids in foods and make smelly sulfur compounds.
However, improper oral hygiene is not the only cause of halitosis formation. This troublesome condition may also occur as a result of using dentures or braces. The hard-to-reach areas around these fillings are difficult to reach with a toothbrush or dental floss, which is why bacteria that cause bad breath thrive there. Other common causes of halitosis include: diabetes, kidney disease and thyroid disease, infections of the sinuses, throat or tonsils, dry mouth, improper eating habits (drinking large amounts of alcohol, smoking, starving oneself), taking certain medications (mainly antidepressants, painkillers and diuretics).
Remember to gargle with salt water and practice good oral hygiene to prevent tonsil stones from forming. Small tonsil stones can be removed at home, but if you have large tonsil stones or are experiencing severe symptoms, it's best to see a doctor for proper treatment.
It is not a dangerous condition, and one can get rid of it by using some home remedies. However, it may require antibiotics and surgery in some cases.
It is believed to be made of a material known as biofilm that comprises a collection of microorganisms on the surface. The film combines mouth bacteria and fungi that attach to a moist surface. When the material hardens within the tonsils, plaque is formed.
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.
If you smoke or use oral tobacco products, you may experience frequent bad breath. All types of tobacco products can cause bad breath, but they can also lead to much more serious oral health issues. Apart from leaving your mouth smelling like an ashtray, they damage the gum tissue and cause gum disease. If you’ve been using tobacco products for any amount of time, the team at Scott Edwards DDS can check for warning signs.
The impact of halitosis on social interactions and self-esteem can be significant. People with chronic bad breath may feel self-conscious about speaking or being close to others, which can affect their relationships and overall quality of life. It is important to differentiate between occasional bad breath and halitosis in order to seek appropriate treatment and support.
If you are experiencing chronic bad breath despite practicing good oral hygiene and making lifestyle changes, it is important to see a healthcare professional. They can help identify any underlying medical conditions or medications that may be contributing to your bad breath and recommend appropriate treatment options.
By maintaining good oral hygiene and making healthy lifestyle choices, individuals can improve their overall oral health and prevent bad breath.
So, have at least one clove of garlic on a daily basis if you have tonsil stones. Just like garlic, onions are also rich in antibacterial agents.
Dr. Nguyen has served on the Virginia Board of Dentistry and has many achievements such as: Invisalign Premier and Teen Provider, Pre-Fellow with Academy of General Dentistry, Graduate of Aesthetic Continuum, Engel Institute for Dental Implant Training, WaveOne Endodontic Training, HD President’s Club.
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