Making dietary changes can help improve breath odor. Avoiding foods that are known to cause bad breath, such as garlic and onions, can be beneficial. Instead, opt for foods that promote good oral health, such as fruits and vegetables. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can also help keep the mouth hydrated and reduce the risk of bad breath.
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Catching gum disease before it happens is important to prevent symptoms such as halitosis. Check your gums daily to watch for changes in colour, bleeding, soreness, puffiness, or sensitive teeth.
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Some symptoms that occur include loose teeth, bleeding, pus, and a persistent bad taste in the mouth. If you lose a tooth due to periodontitis, your dentist will be able to provide you with emergency dental care and provide guidance on how to correct and prevent future damage.
Diet can play a role in the formation of tonsil stones and bad breath. Certain foods can contribute to the accumulation of debris in the tonsils, while others can help prevent bacterial overgrowth and reduce bad breath.
When the Lamberts started putting the vaguely medical sounding "halitosis" in their ads, they framed it as a health condition that was keeping people from being their very best selves. Inglis-Arkell describes the campaign’s direction:
Large cavities and progressive gum disease both provide perfect hiding spots for large collections of bacteria. As cavities worsen, bacteria accumulate in actual holes in the teeth. When gum disease progresses, deep pockets develop between the tooth’s roots and the surrounding gum and jawbone. The deep pockets are breeding grounds for bacteria that become more dangerous as the pocket deepens.
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It is also important to choose a mouthwash that does not contain alcohol, as alcohol can dry out the mouth and contribute to bad breath. Opting for an alcohol-free mouthwash can help maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in the mouth and reduce the risk of dry mouth.
- Sugary foods: Bacteria in the mouth feed on sugar and produce acids that can contribute to bad breath.
Whether your bad breath is temporary or a symptom of a bigger problem, the following tips will benefit your teeth, gums, and overall oral health.
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Some recommended toothpastes for fighting halitosis include Colgate Total Advanced Fresh + Whitening Toothpaste, Crest Pro-Health Advanced Deep Clean Toothpaste, and Sensodyne Pronamel Fresh Breath Enamel Toothpaste. These toothpastes contain a combination of fluoride, antimicrobial agents, tartar control ingredients, and freshening agents to combat bad breath.
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.
Poor dental hygieneLack of saliva in the mouthPoor lifestyle choices such as smoking and alcohol