Sometimes certain medications are the cause of smell or taste disorders, and improvement occurs when that medicine is stopped or changed. Although certain medications can cause chemosensory problems, others particularly anti-allergy drugs seem to improve the senses of taste and smell. Some patients, notably those with serious respiratory infections or seasonal allergies, regain their smell or taste simply by waiting for their illness to run its course. In many cases, nasal obstructions, such as polyps, can be removed to restore airflow to the receptor area and can correct the loss of smell and taste. Occasionally, chemosenses return to normal just as spontaneously as they disappeared. Quick Links News Physician Portal CME Calendar Online Orientation Careers Take Charge of Your Health Publications Pay Your Bill Vendors Foundation - Ways to Give Residency ValleyWay MyChart Institutional Review Board Practices Primary Care Offices Specialists Care Offices Walk-in Care Services Urology Cancer Heart & Vascular Women & Children Neuroscience Orthopedics Bariatric Weight Loss Program Physical Rehabilitation Other Services Patients & Visitors A Message From the Joint Commission Notice of Privacy Practices Patient Rights & Responsibilities Community Education Programs Advance Directives Support Groups Locations Cape Fear Valley Medical Center Highsmith-Rainey Specialty Hospital Rehabilitation Center Behavioral Health Care Bladen County Hospital Hoke Hospital
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.
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If you are diabetic, visiting your dentist regularly will ensure any concerns are dealt with promptly and early signs of DKA or gum disease are caught before they can progress.
Acid reflux is caused by an overly relaxed lower esophageal sphincter (LES). It is a muscle that acts as a barrier to the stomach and operates similarly to a valve. When it is working correctly, it will open to allow food to pass through the esophagus into the stomach, but when it is too relaxed or faulty, it will remain open, allowing the contents in the stomach to flow back upwards.
Small tonsil stones can be removed at home using a cotton swab or the back of your toothbrush. Gently apply pressure to the tonsil to push the stone out of the crevice.
Basically, all the food eaten begins to be broken down in your mouth. Also, foods are absorbed into your bloodstream and move to the lungs, affecting the air you exhale. If you eat foods with strong odors (such as garlic or onions), brushing and flossing – even mouthwash – merely covers up the odor temporarily. The odor will not go away completely until the foods have passed through your body. Other common foods that can cause bad breath include:
Living with tonsil stones and halitosis can be challenging both physically and emotionally. Coping with the physical symptoms, such as bad breath or difficulty swallowing, can be distressing. Additionally, the social stigma associated with bad breath can impact self-esteem and confidence.
Breathe Easy with These Effective Halitosis Cures and Remedies
The Role of Diet in Causing Bad Breath
On the other hand, there are foods that can actually help freshen breath. Fruits and vegetables, such as apples, carrots, and celery, can help stimulate saliva production and wash away bacteria and food particles that can cause bad breath. Additionally, drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help prevent dry mouth, which is another common cause of bad breath.
2. TheraBreath Fresh Breath Oral Rinse: This mouthwash is specifically formulated to target bad breath. It contains a patented oxygenating compound that neutralizes odor-causing bacteria. It is alcohol-free and has a mild mint flavor.
Conclusion
The Importance of Oral Hygiene in Maintaining Fresh Breath
Tonsil stones are generally not harmful and do not cause any health problems. However, they can cause bad breath and discomfort.
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:
Brush your tongue, cheeks, and the roof of your mouth. Most bad breath bacteria live on the tongue. So brushing or scraping the tongue can make a big difference in your breath.
Even with all of these causes of bad breath, most bad breath is due to a simple problem: poor oral hygiene. If you keep your teeth and mouth clean, food particles can stay in your mouth and allow a sticky buildup of bacteria known as plaque to form on your teeth. The uneven surfaces on your tongue and tonsils are especially good at trapping food and bacteria that can cause bad breath.