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?
DIY Remedy #4: Baking Soda Mouthwash
.
Some people are born with a poor sense of smell or taste. Upper respiratory infections are blamed for some losses, and injury to the head can also cause smell or taste problems.
Certain habits can also cause bad smells in the mouth. In general, these habits include smoking of any kind, smokeless tobacco use and e-cigs/vaping. Smoking cigarettes causes the strongest, most noticeable alteration in your breath. Smoker’s breath has a very distinct odor that does not respond well to home treatments.
Halitosis can also be caused by factors outside of the oral cavity, which are referred to as extraoral causes. While less common than intraoral causes, there are a number of non-oral diseases that can trigger bad breath.The following are some of the most common extraoral causes of halitosis:
If food is the cause of your bad breath, brush your teeth after you eat. Antibacterial toothpaste can help prevent bad breath. Don’t forget to brush your tongue as well as your teeth. Make sure to also floss at least once a day to get rid of trapped food particles that can cause bad breath. Finally, rinse with a mouthwash containing fluoride to eliminate odors and give your teeth an extra layer of protection.
Even if yours came out painlessly, tonsil stones might leave traces of bacteria in your mouth or open, sore areas on your tonsils that need to be kept clean if you don’t want to develop more tonsil stones down the road.
There are multiple reasons for bad breath and sore throat. It is often due to harmful bacteria, viral infections, poor dental hygiene, or other factors. However, other factors, such as tonsillitis, can affect that simultaneously. One such factor can be the condition called tonsil stones.
Saliva usually washes away excess food particles and bacteria that build up on teeth. If you don’t have enough saliva to do this you will definitely suffer from an unpleasant smell. Common causes of decrease saliva are:
If you are taking medications and experiencing chronic bad breath, it is important to speak with your healthcare provider. They may be able to adjust your medication or recommend strategies to alleviate dry mouth and improve your breath.
As stated above, tonsils have many gaps, pits, and crevices known as tonsillar crypts. They trap viruses, bacteria, fungi, and other germs and make the immune system fight infections. Sometimes, crevices can add debris such as bacteria, food, and dead cells, leading to calcium build-up forming the stones.
Next, press the swab behind the white stone, pushing it towards the front of your mouth so that it does not fall down your throat. Usually, this method will do the trick, but if it doesn’t, gargle with vinegar and try again later.
Bad breath is just one reason why you’d want to treat heartburn or GERD. Acid reflux can be pretty uncomfortable and can cause long-lasting damage to the esophagus if untreated. Treatment options include avoiding certain foods, taking antacid, or, in the most severe cases, surgery.
A great experience the office is clean, professional and most importantly the staff is caring. My dentist, Dr. Kerbs is... looking for the long term solution and only makes recommendations as they are needed. I switched to PFD after receiving the recommendation for an implant and bone graft from my family dentist and a specialist. I was comparing prices, for the implant. I did not even feel I needed a second opinion at this point. I was in extreme pain. Dr. Kerbs said we could do an implant if needed but wanted to try and adjust my bite in stages with a bite block first. A couple months later, no pain and the implant is not even a consideration at this point.read more
Mouthwash and Halitosis: How to Choose the Right Product
An antiseptic mouthwash can help eliminate bacteria that cause bad breath. For dry mouth, your dentist might recommend artificial saliva. Ask your dentist about which product is best for you.
Best. Dentist. Ever.I’ve lived in 6 states and had to find a new dentist every time I relocate. Premier Family Dentist... is hands down the best experience I have had. Everyone is friendly, knowledgeable and Dr. Spring is highly skilled and takes the time to explain everything. I trust this practice to take care of my family’s dental needs.read more