How to beat bad breath. Bad breath - why and how to deal with halitosis
From their own mouth, people, as a rule, first of all begin to worry about the aesthetic impression that this defect makes on others.
Very few people think about the causes of such trouble. But they can be very serious! To Acid smell from the mouth, the reasons for which may be different, should be an occasion to pay attention to the state of your body.
Sour breath is a symptom of a disease of the digestive tract.
Often sour breath is an alarming symptom of one of the most dangerous. With equal probability, the root cause of this phenomenon can be:
- or duodenum;
- gastritis;
- gastroesophageal reflux;
- chalazia cardia;
- other equally serious diseases and digestive disorders.
How to find out what exactly provoked sour breath in your particular case? And, most importantly, how to get rid of this unpleasant phenomenon? Our article will help answer these questions.
First of all, we list the most common diseases of the gastrointestinal tract that can provoke bad breath. So, "sour" breath is usually a sign of one of the following digestive disorders.
Gastritis is increased acidity in the stomach.
The cause of a specific smell from the mouth may be the increased acidity in the stomach, characteristic of.
Often this condition is accompanied by heartburn and other symptoms typical of digestive disorders. As for the sour smell itself, with gastritis it is not constantly felt from the mouth.
As a rule, a specific "odor" appears simultaneously with food belching and persists until the next session of eating or brushing your teeth.
Why does the characteristic smell from the mouth appear with gastritis? The fact is that increased acidity leads to a slowdown. Because of this, slowly digested proteins accumulate in the patient's stomach, where they begin to rot, emitting appropriate odors.
In chronic gastritis (implying a catastrophic slowdown in the digestive process), such an unpleasant effect is amplified significantly. Only special medicines that reduce acidity in the stomach help to cope with it.
Gastroesophageal reflux is a condition in which, due to disturbances in the functioning of the digestive tract, gastric juice is thrown into the esophagus. The hydrochloric acid contained in this secret emits a specific smell that is felt when breathing.
Especially clearly unpleasant "odor" from the patient's mouth is felt immediately after his awakening. Indeed, during sleep, a person is in a horizontal position, which means that the digestive juice can flow into absolutely unhindered.
Other characteristic symptoms of reflux are specific stomach pain, nausea, and frequent belching. It is also worth noting that the described disease rarely occurs on its own. It usually accompanies gastritis and develops against the background of its exacerbations.
Chalazia cardia
Gastroesophageal reflux is the backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus.
Cardia is the name given to the gastric muscular valve that connects this organ to the esophagus.
Its dysfunction (chalasia) leads to the fact that digestive juices enter cavities that are not intended for them. Usually this is the esophagus.
As a result, a condition occurs in its symptoms resembling gastroesophageal reflux.
Unlike the mentioned disease, chalazia cardia develops as an independent disease. This disorder has nothing to do with gastritis.
Diagnosis of chalazia allows a characteristic in the sternum and a sour taste in the mouth.
Ulcer of the stomach and duodenum
Usually, gastrointestinal ulcers are asymptomatic. It is very difficult to diagnose such diseases in a timely manner (that is, before the onset of severe consequences). However, during periods of exacerbation, ulcers can manifest themselves not only with characteristic pains, but also with other signs. One of them is a sour smell from.
What caused this phenomenon? Many diseases of the gastrointestinal tract entail violations of the intestinal microflora. It is the death of beneficial microorganisms living there that provokes an unpleasant, sharp, sour smell from the mouth, which can be felt even when breathing.
Dental diseases
Gingivitis can cause bad breath.
Most often, the source of a sour smell is problems directly in the oral cavity.
Dental diseases such as caries, gingivitis and periodontitis will almost certainly lead to this unpleasant phenomenon. Why, then, with problems with teeth and gums, there is such a specific smell?
The fact is that inflammatory processes in the soft tissues around the teeth lead to active reproduction of bacteria in the oral cavity. In the course of their life, harmful microorganisms emit many substances, most of which do not have the most pleasant smell.
Due to the specific location of the focus of inflammation, a person suffering from problems with teeth and gums, as a rule, feels not only a sour smell from the mouth, but also a specific taste on the tongue.
Diaphragmatic hernia
The diaphragm separating the thoracic and abdominal cavities is equipped with a special hole. The esophagus passes through it. However, with a hernia of the diaphragm, the described hole becomes too wide. Because of this, the esophagus, which is normally partially located in, shifts higher.
What threatens such a violation? Due to the bends of the esophagus, which are uncharacteristic for its normal state, as well as its specific location, the likelihood of gastric juice entering this organ increases significantly. Well, what does this lead to, we have already mentioned, talking about gastroesophageal reflux and chalazia cardia.
Other causes of bad breath
Taking medication sometimes leads to sour breath.
We hasten to reassure: sour breath is not necessarily caused by some serious digestive problems.
Often this effect occurs due to short-term exposure to some negative factors.
Accordingly, the smell from the mouth will disappear without a trace, as soon as the cause that provoked it is eliminated. So, what factors can give the breath a sour "smell"? We list the main ones:
- Go to . A sour (less often slightly sweetish) odor may occur due to the development of hypoglycemia. With any diet, blood sugar levels drop sharply. Accordingly, the body begins to fight the energy deficit through the production of ketones (intermediate breakdown products). It is they who have a specific sour smell that is felt when breathing.
- Taking medication. Medicines of some groups provoke a decrease in salivation. As a result, a person who takes them for a long time may develop a specific smell from the mouth. As a rule, antihistamines and hormonal drugs, diuretics and sedatives, and antidepressants have a similar effect.
- Failures in the work of the nervous system. Malfunctions in the human body due to excessive overstrain (both emotional and physical) can lead to the most unexpected and unpredictable effects. A strange sour smell from the mouth in this case is the lesser of possible evils.
Treatment and prevention
Rosehip decoction will help get rid of bad breath.
In most cases, you will not be able to permanently get rid of a specific smell from the mouth without consultation.
Only a specialist will be able to reliably determine the source of this problem and prescribe an adequate treatment for the case. It is clear that this kind of therapy takes time. But what if you need to get rid of bad breath immediately?
You can quickly deal with bad breath in quite banal ways: using chewing gum or brushing your teeth properly. However, in especially "neglected" cases, such measures, as a rule, help little.
In such a situation, decoctions of herbs will help get rid of a specific "darling": lemon balm, or mint. If none of the above is at hand, you can try to kill the smell with food. Fresh fruits and any cheeses help well in this regard.
Of course, it is easier to prevent a disease than to cope with its consequences. What is the most effective prevention for bad breath? In this regard, there is only one piece of advice: eat right and visit a gastroenterologist regularly. After all, if you do not allow the development of diseases of the digestive tract, you will never have to face such a problem as sour breath.
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One of the common problems in today's medicine is bad breath. A similar problem of a person causes a number of unpleasant emotions in others, in particular, a persistent disgust for this person. What causes bad breath and how to deal with it?
Causes of bad breath.
It should be noted that bad breath is a pathology that occurs as the body matures and develops. In modern medicine, this condition is known as halitosis. This problem is, in principle, solvable. Usually the treatment process is very simple and effective, it is only necessary to accurately identify the main source of bad breath. Basically, this is an accumulation in the human mouth (on the back of the tongue, around and between the teeth) of white matter, in which a large number of anaerobic bacteria are concentrated (gram-negative anaerobes that live and multiply in an oxygen-free environment). These bacteria secrete chemical compounds (hydrogen sulfide, methyl mercaptan, cadavrine, putrescine, skatole) that are the source of halitosis. Basically, bacteria begin to release foul-smelling substances after human consumption of proteins - meat, fish, seafood, eggs, milk, cheese, yogurt, cheeseburgers, cereals, nuts, legumes, as well as any desserts based on them. In addition, dead cells of the oral cavity serve as food for bacteria.
In addition to the accumulation of bacteria in the mouth, the causes of bad breath can be:
- Diseases of the digestive system (gastritis, ulcers). In this case, this problem is caused by the pathology of non-closure of the esophageal sphincter, when odors from the stomach penetrate directly through the esophagus into the oral cavity.
- Intestinal pathology (enteritis and colitis). As a result of inflammatory processes in the intestines, toxic substances enter the bloodstream, which the body removes, including through the lungs, as a result of which bad breath appears.
- Diseases of the liver and pancreas. The process of the appearance of bad breath is similar to the previous version.
- Diseases of the ear, throat and nose (tonsillitis, chronic tonsillitis, chronic sinusitis). A bad smell occurs against the background of inflammatory processes of a purulent nature.
- Lung diseases (tuberculosis, pneumonia, abscess). Inflammatory processes in the lungs proceed with the collapse of the lung tissue, namely the purulent process, which leads to the appearance of this problem.
- Diseases of the oral cavity (caries). A carious lesion of the teeth or an abscess of the tooth proceeds with the release of purulent bad breath.
- Violation of oral hygiene. Putrefactive microbes, their active reproduction and activity in the remains of food, poorly eliminated as a result of brushing the teeth and oral cavity, contribute to the production of fetid gases.
Excessive smoking or drinking alcohol is also a cause of bad breath. Basically, the process of its formation is based on nicotine, tar and other substances contained in tobacco smoke. They accumulate on the teeth and soft tissues of a heavy smoker. In this case, the only way to get rid of the problem is by giving up cigarettes. Perfect oral hygiene will help to reduce the smell somewhat, but will not completely eliminate it. In addition, smoking leads to dehydration of the tissues of the mouth, as a result of which saliva somewhat loses its moisturizing and disinfecting effect. From here, dry mouth or xerostomia appears, which also leads to the appearance of an unpleasant odor. Decreased saliva production leads to dry mouth. This is especially noticeable in the morning. As a result, our breath becomes less fresh. By constantly swallowing saliva, we cleanse the mouth of the waste products of the bacteria inhabiting it and of the bacteria themselves. Drying out the mouth significantly reduces the positive effect of saliva, resulting in favorable conditions for the growth of bacteria. Chronic xerostomia can occur as a side effect while taking certain medications (antihistamines, drugs that normalize blood pressure, antidepressants, diuretics, tranquilizers, narcotic substances). Over the years, this problem can worsen as the effectiveness of the salivary glands decreases and the composition of saliva changes, resulting in a weakening of the cleansing effect of saliva. Chronic dry mouth or xerostomia contributes to the development of periodontal disease (gum disease).
Periodontal disease can also lead to bad breath. Usually this disease occurs in people over 35 years of age and is a bacterial infection of the soft tissues that surround the teeth. In its advanced form, the disease can give a complication in the form of serious damage to the bone on which the tooth is located. In the active form of the disease, gaps form between the teeth and gums, the so-called "periodontal pockets", where an excessive amount of bacteria is concentrated. These gaps are sometimes very deep, making hygienic cleaning difficult, resulting in accumulated bacteria and their waste products causing bad breath.
Diseases of the upper respiratory tract can cause bad breath. This is due to the fact that the mucous secretions accompanying the disease enter the oral cavity from the nasal cavity, and their accumulation leads to the appearance of this problem.
People suffering from sinusitis are forced to breathe through their mouth due to nasal congestion, which in turn leads to dry mouth and, as a result, bad breath. In the process of treating sinusitis, antihistamines are usually prescribed, which also contribute to the drying of the mouth.
It should be noted that the presence of dentures can also adversely affect the freshness of your breath. Whether a bad smell comes from prostheses or not is very easy to find out. You just need to remove them and place them in a closed container for a day. After the specified time, open the container and immediately smell it. Approximately such aroma comes from you during communication with people. In addition, bacteria can also accumulate on the surface of the denture, resulting in bad breath. Therefore, it is very important to thoroughly and daily clean them both from the inside and from the outside. Usually, when installing them, the dentist talks about the features of the hygiene of dentures. After cleaning, the dentures should be placed in a container with an antiseptic liquid (whichever doctor recommends).
How to get rid of an unpleasant smell?
When solving the problem of bad breath, most people mask it with chewing gums or mouthwashes, unaware that it is represented by volatile compounds. They also do not know that chewing gum negatively affects the gastrointestinal tract, and the effect of them is only short-lived. Mouthwashes often lead to disruption of the natural flora in the mouth, which only exacerbates bad breath. There are many other remedies, but doctors most often prescribe CB12, because, unlike others, it does not mask, but neutralizes those very volatile compounds, eliminating an unpleasant odor for a period of at least 12 hours. At the same time, it does not violate the normal flora of the oral cavity, it can be used even by pregnant and lactating women. CB12 is actively used by users of braces and prostheses. For persistent fresh breath, it is recommended to use rinse aid every day.
To deprive the bacteria of nutrients, you should include more fresh vegetables and fruits in your diet (especially apples and oranges) and limit the consumption of meat. It has been proven that vegetarians have practically no problems with fresh breath. Also of great importance is the correct and timely cleaning of the oral cavity, especially after eating protein dishes. If you do not thoroughly clean the spaces between your teeth every day, where food remains get stuck, you will not be able to cope with an unpleasant odor. Therefore, if you have a problem with fresh breath, it is recommended to brush your teeth, gums and tongue after each meal, rinse your mouth thoroughly and use dental floss. All this will help to keep the oral cavity clean and prevent the appearance of plaque, in which bacteria live that produce unpleasant "aromas".
If you keep your mouth perfectly clean, but the smell from your mouth does not disappear, you should visit a dentist who, if necessary, will teach you how to properly brush your teeth with a toothbrush and help with flossing. Unfortunately, even today a large number of people do not properly use these attributes of hygiene. If you have tartar on your teeth, your doctor will quickly and effectively remove it. If periodontal disease is detected, the dentist will prescribe the necessary treatment. In addition, if any other untreated diseases are found that may be the source of bad breath. If, after examining, the dentist does not find anything that could be the source of the problem, he may refer you to a general practitioner for an examination.
To get rid of this problem, it is important, in addition to teeth and gums, to thoroughly clean the surface of the tongue every day. Unfortunately, most of us ignore this procedure, but in vain. After all, it is this procedure that often helps to get rid of this problem without the use of any additional methods. It should be noted that it is necessary to clean the back of the tongue, since the front, in the process of constant movement of the tongue, touches the hard palate and thus cleans itself. Therefore, bacteria that produce malodorous compounds are mainly concentrated on the back of the tongue, which needs to be thoroughly cleaned.
To eliminate unpleasant odors, it is best to use toothpaste, which includes antibacterial substances (chlorine dioxide or cetylpyridone chloride). Such a paste not only cleanses well, but also has a detrimental effect on anaerobic bacteria.
Additional use of liquid mouthwash will help to cope with bad breath. Its composition has antibacterial properties and the ability to neutralize volatile sulfur compounds.
Rinsers can be of several types:
- containing chlorine dioxide or sodium chlorite (kill bacteria and neutralize their secretions);
- with zinc content (neutralize volatile sulfur compounds);
- antiseptic (kill bacteria, but do not eliminate odor);
- with the content of cetylpyridone chloride (reduces the number of anaerobic bacteria).
As an additional means of getting rid of an unpleasant odor, you can use various mints, lozenges, drops, sprays, chewing gums, etc. It is good if these products contain substances such as chlorine dioxide, sodium chlorite and zinc, which neutralize volatile sulfur compounds. In addition, mints, lozenges and chewing gum stimulate the production of saliva, which, thanks to its cleansing properties, eliminates bacteria and their waste products from the oral cavity, which means it eliminates bad breath.
Irrigators as a way to get rid of unpleasant odors
Recently, dentists are increasingly advising patients to use irrigators. These are devices that supply a jet of water under pressure, washing out food debris and accumulations of bacteria from even the most inaccessible places.
One of the new models on the Russian market is the stationary irrigator of the German brand ACleon TF600, which has extended functionality. Seven nozzles in the kit allow you to eliminate bacteria even from the most inaccessible places and clean the oral cavity with high quality (including nozzles for the tongue, braces and implants). The ingress of new microorganisms is prevented by the presence of a built-in ultraviolet lamp, a disinfecting nozzle.
An analogue of a stationary irrigator is a portable model of the same brand ACleon TF200. Weighing only 250 grams, it comes in a case and comes with a battery, so you can take it anywhere with you. Use irrigators, and the problem of bad breath will not affect you.
Video: Overview of ACleon TF600 and TF200 irrigators
Additional measures to eliminate unpleasant odors.
Drink more liquid throughout the day. This will reduce the bad odor. Not drinking enough water throughout the day will cause the body to retain water by reducing saliva production. And this will negatively affect the natural cleansing of the oral cavity from bacteria and their secretions. It is especially important to consume plenty of fluids for people suffering from chronic dry mouth (xerostomia).
Rinse your mouth with water several times a day. This will reduce halitosis somewhat by dissolving and washing away the waste products of bacteria.
Constantly stimulate the process of salivation, which will reduce the unpleasant odor. The easiest way is to chew something (mints, propolis, chewing gum, mint, cloves, dill, parsley, etc.). If you prefer chewing gum or mints, you should make sure that they do not contain sugar, as it stimulates the growth of bacteria that cause cavities.
Folk remedies for getting rid of bad breath.
Add three to four teaspoons of 3% hydrogen peroxide to a glass of water. Rinse your mouth with the resulting liquid two to three times during the day. Under the influence of active oxygen, formed due to hydrogen peroxide, putrefactive bacteria, which are the cause of an unpleasant odor, die.
For the same purpose, you can use hydroperite (hydrogen peroxide in the form of tablets).
Fresh Siberian cedar needles will help get rid of diseases of the oral cavity and gums (you can use pine or fir henna). It is necessary to chew the needles before the formation of water. In the process of chewing, due to coniferous phytoncides, the oral cavity is disinfected and cleaned of food debris. Two weeks of daily performance of the procedure will eliminate the unpleasant odor forever.
With reduced salivation and severe dryness of the mouth, it is recommended to chew a slice of lemon. This will get rid of the repulsive smell from the mouth for an hour and a half.
Rinsing the mouth with decoctions of infusions of bitter herbs (wormwood, yarrow, tansy) also eliminates unpleasant odors. This is due to the fact that herbs increase the secretion of saliva, which suppresses the pathological microflora, which is the source of an unpleasant odor. To prepare the infusion, it is necessary to pour dried and chopped grass (a tablespoon) with a glass of boiling water and insist for fifteen minutes. Rinse your mouth with this infusion two or three times a day.
An infusion of chamomile and calendula has an anti-inflammatory effect, reduces inflammation of the tonsils, the back of the pharynx and the root of the tongue, reducing the intensity of bad breath. The preparation of the infusion is similar to the previous recipe.
Tea from lemon and peppermint leaves, rose hips, cumin seeds, thyme herbs give freshness to the breath. Brew grass instead of tea and drink with honey.
Eating walnuts or fennel in the morning will also reduce bad breath.
Rinse the mouth with tincture of St. John's wort (twenty to thirty drops in half a glass of water).
Use an infusion of strawberry leaves: pour two cups of boiling water over a tablespoon of raw materials and put on fire, cook for twenty minutes, then strain. Drink half a glass daily.
Infuse cranberries in water and consume daily.
Juice, water and alcohol infusion, alcohol tincture, syrup and sea buckthorn oil, taken orally, will help get rid of an unpleasant odor.
The use of infusion of sorrel leaves also solves this unpleasant problem. Pour a tablespoon of fresh leaves with two glasses of water, put on fire and cook from the moment of boiling for fifteen minutes. Then insist the broth for two hours and strain. Drink 50 ml four times a day fifteen minutes before meals.
A decoction of oak bark helps with chronic tonsillitis, stomatitis, pharyngitis, and bad breath. Rinse your mouth with it two or three times a day for ten minutes.
When the mouth smells of rot, then no expensive clothes and cosmetics will help to switch the attention of the interlocutor. This problem is called halitosis, it seriously interferes with normal communications, leads to psychological discomfort, complexes.
Putrid breath is a common occurrence in medical practice. Everyone faces it - children, women, men. Many mistakenly believe that poor hygiene is the cause, however, the true causes of persistent fetid odors from the mouth are much deeper.
Why does he appear? According to medical statistics, in 90% of cases, the cause of putrid odor from the oral cavity is dental problems. The rest of the percentage is due to deviations in the digestive organs and some other factors.
The main reasons why there is a rotten or rotting smell from the mouth:
- dental problems - the presence of periodontitis, periodontal disease, stomatitis, carious foci, oral dysbacteriosis, tartar and deposits, poor hygiene. In addition, a rotten smell is provoked by dentures, difficult teething of wisdom teeth, pathologies of the salivary glands;
- disorders of the digestive system. Rotten odors are emitted against the background of gastritis, colitis, enteritis, pathologies of the esophagus, diseases of the gallbladder, liver, pancreas, helminthic invasions;
- disorders in the respiratory system - with tuberculosis, lung abscess, pneumonia, bronchiectasis, rhinitis, bronchitis;
- nicotine or alcohol addiction;
- dangerous eating disorders in people suffering from bulimia, anorexia. A systematic passion for unbalanced diets, regular overeating, especially at bedtime - in such a group of people, it’s not just a putrid smell that can be heard, but a heavy spirit of feces;
- harmless causes that are not associated with diseases are the use of onions, garlic, hard cheeses and other “fragrant” products;
Many female representatives have repeatedly noticed how freshness of breath changes during menstruation, far from being for the better. In this case, there is no need to talk about pathological causes, since the condition is due to a change in the hormonal background. Everything is back to normal after the end of the month.
Digestive system
Often, gastrointestinal diseases and a fetid odor from the oral cavity are related concepts, since digestion processes occur with disturbances, due to which food can stay in the stomach for a long time, rot or ferment there. If proteins and fats are poorly digested, then this indicates problems with the intestines, which is the source of a putrid odor, because undigested food residues stagnate in it.
A clear sign of problems with the tract is frequent belching of "rotten eggs", vomiting, flatulence, nausea, and heaviness in the abdomen. Therefore, it is highly recommended to see a gastroenterologist in order to undergo a complete examination.
Anna Losyakova
Dentist-orthodontist
If deviations are detected, it will not be possible to remove bad breath from the mouth until the underlying disease is cured.
Respiratory system
When pathologies affect the ENT organs, bad breath is caused by the course of purulent processes directly next to the oral cavity, which causes an olfactory association with a purulent wound on the body. If a person is sick with sinusitis or sinusitis, then physiologically it is more convenient for him to breathe through his mouth, which leads to the drying of the mucous membrane.
The unfavorable chain is continued by a natural reaction - the disinfectant properties of saliva are significantly reduced, which is why bacteria multiply intensively. It is they who become the causal culprits of foul-smelling gases that are released during life and in the process of decomposition when they die.
In diseases of the respiratory system, the bronchi and lungs are inflamed. This is followed by the decomposition of tissues, which is accompanied by the removal of a putrid stench through the oral cavity.
Dental diseases
Periodontal diseases are an unequivocal source of specific and extremely unpleasant odors that are felt by others, and the person himself can get so used to them that he does not even notice the problem. In this case, vaguely diseased teeth or gums will stink, but all the same ill-fated bacteria that feel great in carious lesions, provoking inflammatory processes and other complications, including purulent ones.
The stronger the lesion, the more distinct the smell from the mouth.
Inflamed tissues tend to die and decay, and this action is accompanied by the smell of putrefaction.
If the normal functioning of the salivary glands is disturbed, then a bad smell will necessarily appear as a primary symptom. Thanks to saliva, the cavity can clean itself, but when the glands produce little saliva, dryness forms in the mouth. Such conditions contribute to the development of bacterial flora, which releases hydrogen sulfide.
A putrid odor can be encountered not only against the background of pathologies, but also after waking up, since at night the salivary glands physiologically slow down activity.
Sometimes breathing becomes unpleasant due to a long course of drug therapy. The drugs negatively affect the production of saliva, which leads to the above situation.
The work of the salivary glands can be negatively affected by the intake of antihistamines, sedatives, diuretics. In this case, it is not necessary to immediately go to the doctor. You can wait until the smell of rot from the mouth passes at the end of therapy.
Diagnostics
Having considered the most typical causes of putrid odors, the first step is to consult a dentist and gastroenterologist.
As for the examination of the gastrointestinal tract, in addition to taking an anamnesis, the doctor may prescribe additional methods of instrumental research to make an accurate diagnosis:
- radioisotope diagnostics;
- radiography;
- Ultrasound of the abdominal cavity;
- irrigoscopy;
- gastroscopy;
- radiography.
You will also need to pass various tests: blood for general and biochemical analysis, feces for a coprogram, gastric contents and others. Causes and treatment of odor are highly interrelated.
How to remove the smell
Quality treatment is possible only when the primary causes are eliminated. The easiest and surest step to remove an unpleasant odor is a visit to the dentist, most often this method eliminates persistent unpleasant odors.
The doctor will:
- professional, after which the teeth will be freed from supragingival and subgingival deposits that exude stench;
- sanitation - cure carious teeth, change fillings, if necessary, replace incorrectly installed prostheses, treat inflammatory processes of the periodontium;
- regulates reduced salivation by therapeutic methods;
- teach the rules of good hygiene.
After the procedures, you should observe the freshness of your breath, and in order to make sure that there is no or presence of odors of rot, you can ask your loved ones about it.
If a complete examination of the body was carried out, then the treatment is prescribed by the appropriate specialist.
In the course of treatment of the underlying disease, the patient will make his breathing much more pleasant with the complex implementation of effective recommendations:
Considering that chewing gums and caramel sweets do not have the best effect on the condition of the teeth, you can, as an alternative, resort to natural remedies that temporarily freshen your breath - chew fresh mint, parsley, ginger, eat citrus fruit or an apple. The video below contains many recommendations:
Infusions with lemon balm, sage, thyme, chamomile have a good antibacterial and refreshing effect. For a glass of boiling water, you need to take 1 tbsp. medicinal plant, let it brew for 15-20 minutes, and then use it as a rinse.
Few people are pleased when, during communication, the breath of the interlocutor exudes an unpleasant odor. Everyone can face this problem, and the reasons for such a piquant situation can be very different: from serious diseases to lack of basic hygiene. Repulsive amber is caused by colonies of bacteria living in the oral cavity: on the teeth, gums, tonsils, tongue - they produce gases, which includes sulfur. This is what causes bad breath. If this becomes a daily problem, you should visit your dentist as soon as possible.
Halitosis is a persistent unpleasant odor, which is difficult to get rid of with the available hygiene products that people use in oral care. This phenomenon often accompanies pathological conditions of the organs of the gastrointestinal tract, which do not bother a person. Unpleasant amber can also be caused by problems with the gums and teeth. Fear of bad breath becomes a real problem for a person, having a negative impact on his life - both personal and social.
How to assess if you have bad breath:
- Ask close relatives if you have this problem and how often they feel it.
- Lick your wrist, wait a couple of seconds for the saliva to dry, and smell the place - that's what your breath smells like.
- You can be examined by a specialist on special equipment.
What are the causes of bad breath:
- Diseases of the oral cavity: dental caries, inflammation and bleeding of the gums, purulent plugs on the tonsils.
- Infectious and bacterial infections of the upper respiratory tract: sinusitis, sinusitis, frontal sinusitis.
- Disorders in the endocrine system.
- Diseases of the stomach, liver, intestines, which cause malfunctions in the digestive system.
What else can cause halitosis:
- Starvation and diets. Lack of nutrients contributes to metabolic disorders, and as a result, bad breath appears.
- stressful situations.
- Hormonal fluctuations.
- Smoking tobacco products. Nicotine, tar, phenolic compounds have a bad smell and dry out the oral mucosa. There is a violation of the natural protective function of the mouth and a number of inflammatory processes occur - this is why a persistent unpleasant odor appears.
How to get rid of bad breath?
There are several available methods that will help you permanently get rid of this problem:
- Make an appointment with a dentist - This specialist should be first on the list if you have been halitosis for a long time. Dentists always oversee the problem of bad breath, both in research work and in practice. The doctor objectively assesses the situation, identifies the causes of the disease and eliminates its sources if they are associated with diseases of the teeth and gums. Dental treatment, cleaning of stones and plaque - the problem will be solved! Using dental floss to clean the spaces between the teeth and lotions will help in solving the problem. There are bacteria that accumulate in large numbers on your teeth, causing ulceration, and only a professional doctor can clean them. From the sores, the teeth become brittle, crumbling, so cracks appear in the enamel - an unpleasant smell comes from the mouth. Caries, rotten teeth, gum disease - these phenomena can cause bad breath from the mouth.
- Visiting an otolaryngologist - Chronic diseases of the nasopharynx can also cause an unpleasant odor due to foul-smelling discharge from the nose. Bacteria can accumulate in the sinuses and nose, causing infections. Solution: treat the disease and rinse the nose with saline. Do not self-medicate - only an ENT can identify the true problem and prescribe the right treatment that will bring results.
- Checking the Tonsils - Tonsils are spherical bulges at the back of the throat that resemble prunes. Many bacteria accumulate on their surface, as a result of which whitish-yellow plugs form, from which an unpleasant spirit emanates. The plugs are removed with a special device that injects water under pressure into the tonsils - its name is "Waterpik". If the plugs form constantly, doctors recommend considering surgical removal.
- Checking the work of the gastrointestinal tract - Problems with the stomach often cause bad breath. Acid reflux occurs when gastric juice and food pieces move up through the esophagus. This condition requires medical treatment with antacids.
- Proper nutrition - Some foods cause bad breath, such as onion, garlic or spicy food - pieces accumulate in the mouth during meals. Many food chemicals in combination with garlic are absorbed by blood cells and excreted through the lungs, so breathing itself becomes unpleasant, not bad teeth.
Prevention of halitosis and methods for its elimination
- Doctors recommend brushing your teeth twice a day, at least 2-4 minutes in different directions, cleaning the chewing surface and massaging the gums. Also, don't forget to use floss to clean the spaces between your teeth where food particles get stuck. Even the best toothbrush can't get into those hard to reach places. Change your toothbrush every three months or more often.
- Snacks between main meals should consist of yogurt, kefir, fruits, vegetables, salads, and not chips and fast food. After a snack, rinse your mouth with a special lotion, and then use chewing gum for no more than three minutes. Choose quality toothpastes and lotions that do not contain alcohol. Products that contain Triclosan, baking soda and Chlorhexidine are recommended. Rinsing your mouth with warm water after each meal will rid your teeth of food debris.
- In addition to the teeth, it is also necessary to clean the surface of the tongue, since the white coating on it contains bacteria, as well as food debris - in combination, they cause bad smell from the mouth.
These important rules will help solve the problem and allow you to live a full life without fear of complexes!
Home / MiscellaneousBad breath, or halitosis as it is called in medical parlance, can cause a lot of problems in daily life.
And if a person is looking for an answer to the question of how to permanently get rid of bad breath at home, then the problem worries him for a long time.
Obsessive halitosis occurs due to various factors, but about 70-80% of all causes are hidden in improper oral hygiene and concomitant diseases - caries, pulpitis, stomatitis, periodontal disease.
Other causes of chronic mouth disease may include developing and acute forms of organ diseases:
If you suspect any disease, you should consult a doctor. Without eliminating the cause of bad breath in adults, treatment with folk remedies and other methods at home will not be effective.
It is necessary to use drugs from a pharmacy to treat bad breath as prescribed by a doctor in combination with the treatment of the disease that caused the pathology:
There are several ways that will indicate how to quickly get rid of the smell of garlic from the mouth. They will also help to eliminate the onion aroma:
To prevent an unpleasant odor caused by reasons other than the pathology of internal organs, you need to monitor the health of your teeth and brush them 2-3 times a day.
The use of dental floss or an irrigator will improve the quality of dental hygiene. It is also important to clean the tongue with the outside of the brush - a lot of harmful substances accumulate on it!
Bad breath is not only a barrier to communication and a cause of self-doubt, but can also signal a serious pathology. We turned to a therapist to learn about the causes and ways to deal with an uncomfortable problem.
Ardeeva Irina Mikhailovna,
doctor-therapist of the highest qualification category,
medical center "Horizont"
With halitosis - that's what bad breath is called - sooner or later almost every person encounters. The question is whether this is temporary or the problem is permanent. Sometimes the person himself may not notice the unpleasant odor. There are the following self-diagnosis methods:
- Take a cotton pad or tissue and put it on the back third of your tongue, then take it out and smell it.
- Smell the floss or toothpick a minute after use.
- Breathe into your palm and sniff.
- Put a gauze bandage on your face and walk around in it for about 5 minutes. The smell accumulated on the bandage corresponds to the smell from the mouth.
- You can use a special pocket apparatus that determines the concentration of hydrogen sulfide during breathing - a halimeter, with a scale from 0 to 4 points.
Causes of temporary bad breath may be:
- Long-term use of certain drugs - hormonal, antihistamines, antidepressants, diuretics, antibacterials, which reduce the production of saliva and lead to the occurrence of halitosis.
- Breathing through the mouth with intense: dry mouth appears, and therefore halitosis occurs.
- Stress, prolonged nervous overload adversely affect the entire body. This may include dry mouth.
In 80% of cases, halitosis is caused by diseases of the oral cavity: carious teeth, periodontitis, gingivitis, stomatitis of various etiologies, diseases of the salivary glands of the tongue, etc.
Therefore, before you run to the doctor, answer yourself the question: do you pay enough attention to oral hygiene? It includes:
- thorough cleaning 2 times a day of teeth, dental gaps using dental floss, cheeks, using special brushes or a scraper,
- rinsing the mouth with warm water after each meal or snack,
- the use of rinses (not antibacterial),
- carrying out 2 times a year professional cleaning of the oral cavity by a dentist.
If you pay due attention to the prevention of oral diseases, but the smell is still present, you should contact dentist and receive appropriate treatment.
If dental treatment is ineffective, the next specialist should be ENT doctor. The cause of bad breath can be chronic tonsillitis. Enlarged, loose palatine tonsils with wide lacunae, in which the smallest food particles and dying epithelial cells accumulate, is a suitable place for numerous bacteria. If chronic tonsillitis is detected, it will be necessary to undergo a course of conservative treatment: washing the lacunae of the tonsils with antiseptic solutions, physiotherapy procedures. Also, chronic rhinitis and sinusitis are often accompanied by the formation of thick fetid mucus, which, getting into the nasopharynx and then into the pharynx, can cause bad breath.
If no pathology is detected by the otorhinolaryngologist, then you need to be examined by therapist or gastroenterologist, since the causes of halitosis can also be diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, lungs, kidneys, metabolic problems (diabetes mellitus).
Previously, a “problem” place in the body can be identified by the nature of the smell .
- Sour breath can be with stomach ulcers, duodenal ulcers, with gastritis with increased acid-forming function, with GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease). Halitosis also occurs with cholecystitis, cirrhosis of the liver, pancreatitis, intestinal dysbacteriosis, and diseases of the esophagus.
- With a smell reminiscent of the smell of rotten meat, eggs, you need to undergo an examination to exclude decompensated cirrhosis of the liver with the presence of liver failure.
- Putrid smell from the mouth can also be with some lung diseases, accompanied by the release of purulent sputum.
- The sweet smell of ripe apples or the smell of acetone may be a sign of decompensated diabetes mellitus; urgent help is required.
- If the breath smells like urine, emergency medical attention is also required, as there is a high probability of kidney failure.
From the foregoing, it becomes clear that in the presence of halitosis, it is necessary to consult a doctor in order to diagnose the disease and treat it.
Recommendations for reducing discomfort and discomfort in halitosis
- You can urgently get rid of bad breath by chewing coffee beans: they neutralize it.
- You can use rinses, toothpastes, gels containing carbamide peroxide, triclosan, cetylpyridine.
- It helps with halitosis by rinsing the mouth with diluted hydrogen peroxide (1 tsp per 1 glass of water) or soda solution (4-5 times a day).
- A good effect is given by daily rinsing of the oral cavity with infusions of herbs: chamomile, mint, alfalfa, dill, yarrow, and propolis.
- The intensity of the smell reduces the use of essential oils (sage, tea tree, clove).
But it is better not to deal with the consequences of the problem, but to deal with the problem itself. Do not complicate your life and do not start the disease - go to the doctor.
The problem of bad breath is quite common and reaches 80-90% of the adult population, but only in 25% of cases bad breath is persistent and its cause is the presence of a chronic pathological process in the human body. Halitosis is caused, as a rule, by a disease of the digestive organs (stomach, liver, intestines, teeth and oral cavity). In most cases, it occurs due to the accumulation in the human mouth - on the tongue, around the teeth and between the teeth - a large number of anaerobic bacteria.
This condition is also known as "halitosis" or "halitosis", "ozostomy", "stomatodisody". The problem of bad breath is by no means intractable. The methods of its treatment are usually very simple and effective - you just need to correctly recognize the main cause of the unpleasant odor.
Do you have bad breath?
Of course, under certain circumstances, each of us may develop bad breath - and we ourselves will often be able to find out about this only by the reaction of the people around us. Determining if you have bad breath is often difficult, primarily because the mouth, the source of all these odors, is connected to the nose through an opening located at the back of the mouth, in the soft palate. And since the nose "filters" the odors that arise in the back of the mouth, it also filters this most unpleasant odor. That is, you, quite possibly, have this smell from your mouth - but you yourself do not know about it.
If even our own noses can't tell us with certainty what our breath smells like, can we still know? One way is to get the opinion of one of your closest relatives on this matter. You can also make the same request to a close friend, or to your dentist at the next visit to him. If this question seems too personal to you and you are afraid to "entrust" it to adults, do not be embarrassed and ask your children about it. As we well know, it is through their mouths that the truth often speaks.
Is it possible to independently determine how your breath smells?
Such methods are also known. For example, lick your wrist, let the saliva dry for about five seconds, and then smell the area. Well, how? This is exactly how you smell. Or, to be precise, this is what the front of your tongue smells like.
Now try to figure out what the back of your tongue smells like. Take a spoon, turn it over, and use it to scrape the furthest part of your tongue. (Don't be surprised if you choke on this.) Look at the stuff you've scraped off your tongue on the spoon - it's usually thick and whitish. Now sniff it. This is the smell of your breath (as opposed to the smell of the front of the tongue) that others are most likely to smell.
The main cause of bad breath
Now you know that in most cases, the source of bad breath is the white matter that covers the back of the tongue. Or, to be more precise, the bacteria that live in this white substance.
There is another, also very common cause of bad breath - these are bacteria that accumulate in other areas of the mouth.
What conditions or circumstances can cause or exacerbate bad breath? Many of these factors are somehow related to:
Oral bacteria.
- Conditions that stimulate the growth of these bacteria.
- Poor cleaning of those areas where bacteria accumulate.
Can food cause bad breath?
Certain foods have a long history of causing bad breath, such as onions and garlic. When food is digested, its constituent molecules are absorbed by our body and then removed from it by the blood stream.
Some of these molecules, which have very characteristic and unpleasant odors, enter our lungs with the blood stream. They are excreted from the lungs during exhalation - hence the unpleasant odor. Although this kind of bad smell is a rather annoying problem, we will not discuss it in detail in these pages. The unpleasant smell caused by the use of certain foods usually disappears by itself in a day or two - as soon as the body removes all the "bad-smelling" molecules. And getting rid of such a smell is quite simple - you just need to exclude such products from your diet or reduce their use to a minimum.
Does smoking contribute to bad breath?
You probably had to meet people who smoke heavily, whose breath has a specific smell. Although many factors contribute to the formation of bad breath associated with smoking, the main ones are nicotine, tar and other foul-smelling substances found in tobacco smoke. These substances accumulate on the teeth and soft tissues of the smoker's mouth - gums, buccal tissue, tongue. And again, we will make a reservation - we will not discuss this type of unpleasant smell in detail on these pages either. The only way to completely get rid of this smell is to stop smoking (although with perfect oral hygiene, this smell can be somewhat reduced). Note also that smoking itself dehydrates the tissues of the mouth. This weakens the moisturizing and disinfecting effect of saliva, which washes away bacteria and their waste products. Dry mouth is discussed in more detail below. It is known that people who smoke are more likely to have problems associated with periodontal disease ("gum disease").
Periodontal disease is also caused by bacterial activity. Gum disease and its association with bad breath is discussed in more detail below.
Does xerostomia (dry mouth) contribute to bad breath?
Even if you don't have any particular odor problems, you've probably noticed that in the morning, when you just woke up, your breath is much less fresh. This happens because our mouth "dries up" at night - because during sleep our body produces less saliva. The result of this drying is "morning breath". A similar "drying out effect" is often noticed in themselves, for example, by teachers or lawyers who have to talk for several hours - this also dries up the mouth. Some people suffer from chronic dry mouth - this condition is called xerostomia. It is even more difficult for them to solve problems with fresh breath. The moisture in our mouths aids in cleansing. We constantly swallow saliva - and with each sip, millions of bacteria are washed out of our mouths, as well as food particles that these bacteria feed on. In addition, saliva dissolves and washes away the waste products of bacteria that live in the mouth.
Saliva is a special form of moisturizing mouth fluid, a kind of natural mouth cleaner. Any moisture can have a cleansing and dissolving effect; saliva, in addition, contains special components that kill bacteria and neutralize their waste products. When the mouth dries out, the beneficial effect of saliva is greatly reduced. The neutralization of bacteria slows down and the conditions for their growth improve.
Chronic drying of the mouth - xerostomia - can also be a side effect of taking certain medications. Xerostomia can be caused by antihistamines (allergy and cold medicines), antidepressants, blood pressure medications, diuretics, tranquilizers, and narcotics. Dry mouth can get worse with age. Over time, our salivary glands stop working with the same efficiency, and the composition of saliva also changes. This leads to the fact that the cleansing properties of saliva weaken. People who have had xerostomia for a long time are more likely to develop periodontal disease (gum disease). Gum disease can also be the cause of bad breath.
Can periodontal disease cause bad breath?
Periodontal disease, commonly referred to simply as "gum disease," can also be a cause of bad breath. Ask any dentist - the smell of gum disease is very specific, and an experienced doctor can determine the presence of such a disease even before examining the patient.
Diseases of the oral cavity are the second most common cause of bad breath (the first, as you remember, is the accumulation of bacteria).
More often they occur in people over 35 years old - that is, the older the person, the more likely it is that problems with fresh breath are caused by the condition of his gums. Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection of the soft tissues surrounding the teeth. If such a disease is started, it can lead to serious damage to the bone into which our teeth are “inserted”. Often, as the disease progresses, gaps (called "periodontal pockets" by dentists) form between the teeth and gums, in which large numbers of bacteria accumulate. These pockets are so deep that they are difficult to clean properly; bacteria and their waste products that accumulate in them also cause an unpleasant odor.
Can a respiratory disease cause bad breath?
Of course it can. Diseases of the upper respiratory tract, allergies - all these diseases lead to the fact that mucous secretions begin to flow from the nasal cavity into the oral cavity, through an opening in the soft palate. The accumulation of these secretions in the mouth can also cause bad breath.
People with sinus disease often have a stuffy nose, forcing them to breathe through their mouths. Breathing through the mouth causes it to dry out, which, as we already know, also causes bad breath. People with sinus disease often take antihistamine (anti-allergic) drugs, which also dry out the mouth.
What dental diseases can cause bad breath?
In most cases, the occurrence of an unpleasant odor in the mouth is associated with various diseases of the oral cavity itself. Any active infection in the mouth, such as a tooth abscess or a partially erupted wisdom tooth, can cause bad breath. Extensive untreated cavities in the teeth can accumulate a large amount of bacteria and food debris, which also cause bad breath. If you have such diseases, during the examination, your dentist will definitely identify them and offer effective methods of treatment.
Can other untreated diseases cause bad breath?
Some diseases of the internal organs can also cause an unpleasant odor. If the patient has tried all the usual ways to eliminate an unpleasant odor in such cases, but they have not led to anything, then a visit to the therapist will not hurt. Your doctor, of course, knows which diseases are most likely in your case; but, for general information, - bad breath can occur with diseases of the respiratory tract, liver, kidneys, gastrointestinal diseases.
Can dentures cause bad breath?
Dentures (full, partial, removable, etc.) can have a significant impact on the freshness of your breath. If you wear any type of denture, a simple test can be done to see if your denture is causing bad breath:
Remove your dentures and place them in a covered container, such as a plastic lunch box. Close it tightly and leave it like that for five minutes. Then sharply open it and immediately smell it. About the same smell from your mouth and feel the people with whom you speak.
Although in most cases bad breath is caused by bacteria accumulating on the tongue, on or around the teeth (periodontal disease), bacteria can also accumulate on the surface of dentures and this can also cause bad breath.
What is actually the main cause of bad breath?
In most cases, the occurrence of bad breath is associated with the condition of the oral cavity. Namely - an unpleasant odor is usually caused by bacteria that live in it. Bacteria, like humans, consume food and excrete its waste throughout their lives. The waste products of certain types of bacteria are sulfur compounds, and they are the cause of an unpleasant odor. Remember how a rotten egg smells? This odor is also caused by the formation of a sulfur compound, hydrogen sulfide, in the egg. The characteristic smell of compost heaps or barnyards also owes its "fragrance" to the presence of a sulfur compound - methyl mercaptan. And both of these compounds secrete bacteria that live in our mouths. These substances are collectively referred to as "volatile sulfur compounds" (VSCs). The term "volatile" means that these substances evaporate quickly, even at normal temperatures. The "volatility" of these compounds explains their ability to quickly penetrate, so to speak, into the noses of the people around us. Although these substances mainly form bad breath, bacteria. living in the oral cavity, emit other products that have a very unpleasant odor. Here is some of them:
Kadavrin is a substance that forms a characteristic putrid odor.
- Putrescine - forming a stench when meat rots.
- Skatol is the main component of the smell of human feces.
You will probably be quite surprised to learn that in an ordinary human mouth there can be such a "bouquet" of unpleasant odors - but this is true, and, unfortunately, there are no exceptions. Each person, to one degree or another, has these, so to speak, aromas in his breath. Fortunately, the human sense of smell does not pick up these odors if their concentration in the breath is low. Only when it rises does the same characteristic unpleasant odor form.
What types of bacteria cause bad breath?
Most of the chemical compounds that cause an unpleasant odor (hydrogen sulfide, methyl mercaptan, cadavrine, putrescine, skatol) are secreted by anaerobic bacteria (their more accurate name is gram-negative anaerobes). The term "anaerobic" means that they live and reproduce best in places where there is no oxygen. In our mouths, there is a constant struggle for living space between bacteria that secrete products that form an unpleasant smell, and other bacteria that do not. The freshness of our breath is determined, in fact, by the degree of balance in the presence of both bacteria. A buildup of plaque (the white film that forms on the tongue and teeth - at the gum line and below) can tip this balance in favor of bad breath bacteria. Imagine - a layer of plaque only one or two tenths of a millimeter thick (that is, about a banknote thick) already contains no oxygen at all - that is, there is no better place for bacteria to be found. Therefore, as plaque builds up, more and more odor-forming bacteria colonize it - which means that each of our exhalations contains more and more compounds secreted by these bacteria.
What do anaerobic bacteria feed on that produce bad breath?
Most of the foul-smelling substances that cause bad breath are excreted by bacteria after the consumption of proteins. That is, when we eat foods such as meat or fish, the bacteria living in our mouth get their share of food. And what they secrete after eating, and there are those same compounds. which cause an unpleasant odour. Anaerobic bacteria will find proteins - their favorite food - in anything, even the cheeseburger you ate. In addition, in our mouths there will always be "natural" protein food for them - for example, dead skin cells, or numerous protein components contained in saliva. If you use your toothbrush and floss irregularly, a real feast for bacteria forms in your mouth - food leftovers from today's breakfast, yesterday's dinner, the day before yesterday's lunch ...
What foods contain the most protein?
Meat, fish and seafood, eggs, dairy products (milk, cheeses and yogurts) - there is a lot of protein in all these products. Most people get about two-thirds of the proteins they need from them. Other sources of protein are cereals and products from them, nuts, leguminous plants (peas, beans and lentils). The ingredients found in many of our favorite desserts (like cakes and pies) turn these delicious meals into true protein pantries.
Where do the bacteria that cause bad breath live?
In most cases, these bacteria accumulate on the tongue, but they have many other "habitats".
Language
Remember the "experiment" we recommended you do at the beginning of this section. Although the smell produced in the anterior region of our tongue may not be the most pleasant, it is usually not the main source of problems with freshness of breath. The main "component" of an unpleasant odor is formed in the back of the tongue. Go to the mirror, stick out your tongue and examine it carefully. You will surely see a whitish coating on its surface. Closer to the back of the tongue, this plaque becomes more dense. The number of bacteria that accumulate on the human tongue depends on the texture of its surface. In people whose tongue surface has more folds, grooves and indentations, this number will be greater than in people with a smoother surface of the tongue. In order to create a favorable environment for the life of bacteria in the white layer on the tongue - i.e. devoid of oxygen - this layer can be only one to two tenths of a millimeter thick. Such an "oxygen-free" environment is also called "anaerobic"; It is in it that bacteria live and multiply best. Studies have shown that the number of bacteria on the human tongue directly depends on the thickness of the white layer covering it. And as you can guess, the freshness of your breath depends on the number of bacteria: the fewer of them, the fresher it is.
Periodontal sources
Bad breath bacteria thrive in other areas of the mouth besides the tongue. You may have noticed that flossing also sometimes causes an unpleasant odor. And perhaps this smell becomes more noticeable when you start brushing between the back teeth. In the gaps between the teeth, bacteria that form an unpleasant odor also find refuge. Dentists call these areas "periodontal" ("paro" means "about" and "dont" means "tooth"). Even in a more or less healthy mouth, bacteria can find an oxygen-deprived (anaerobic) environment, such as under the gum line, around and between teeth. And in people suffering from periodontal disease ("gum disease"), the number of such anaerobic "corners" increases many times over. Periodontal disease often results in damage to the bone that surrounds the teeth. This, in turn, leads to the formation of depressions between the teeth and gums (dentists call them "periodontal pockets"). These pockets are generally very difficult or impossible to clean and make an ideal anaerobic environment for odor-causing bacteria to live and multiply.
How to get rid of an unpleasant smell?
Since the main source of bad breath is the foul-smelling secretions of bacteria (volatile sulfur compounds), the main way to get rid of them is to clean the mouth so that:
Deprive bacteria of nutrients.
- Reduce the number of bacteria already accumulated in the mouth.
- Weaken the anaerobic environment in which bacteria live and multiply.
- Do not allow the formation of new foci of reproduction of bacteria.
In addition, cleaners can be used that reduce the activity of odor-causing volatile sulfur compounds.
How to deprive bacteria of nutrients?
As you remember, the main source of bad breath is the foul-smelling waste products of the vital activity of bacteria, which they secrete during the digestion of proteins. Therefore, people who eat a vegetarian diet (consisting mainly of fruits and vegetables) are less likely to have problems with fresh breath than those who consume a lot of protein foods, such as meat. In addition, it is very important to clean the oral cavity in a timely and correct manner - especially after consuming protein-rich foods. After finishing breakfast, lunch or dinner, tiny particles of food remain in our mouths, which get stuck between the teeth, and also settle in a white coating on the back of the tongue. And since it is in these places that anaerobic bacteria that cause an unpleasant odor accumulate, not cleaning your mouth properly after eating will provide them with enough nutrients for a long time.
To get rid of bad breath, brush your teeth and gums. The bacteria that produce the products that cause bad breath also live in the plaque that builds up on the teeth and at the gum line. In order to reduce this plaque, prevent its further accumulation and remove food debris that "lingered" in the mouth and serve as food for bacteria, it is necessary to thoroughly clean the teeth and gums with a toothbrush and dental floss. Let me remind you once again about dental floss. If you do not clean carefully and daily the gaps between the teeth, where the toothbrush cannot penetrate, it is unlikely that you will be able to part with bad breath.
Diagnosis of the causes of bad breath
Particular attention should be paid to diagnostic methods. First of all, it is necessary to inform the attending physician about the presence of chronic diseases. It has been established that the appearance of bad breath is largely influenced by nutritional and hygienic factors, so patients are advised to refrain from eating, drinking, rinsing the mouth and smoking at least two hours before carrying out diagnostic measures.
The first is a hedonic research method, conducted by a doctor who evaluates the quality and strength of an unpleasant odor, and gives a score on the Rosenberg scale from 0 to 5 points. The main drawback of the method is subjectivity.
The next step is to measure the amount of sulfur compounds in the exhaled air using a special sulfide monitoring device "Halimeter". Hydrogen sulfide, methyl mercaptan, and dimethyl sulfide account for 90% of all oral volatile sulfur compounds, so determining the concentration of these gases is the main way to determine the severity of halitosis.
The next step is a microbiological study. The diagnostic stage is very important, because depending on the source of the unpleasant odor and the reasons that caused it, the treatment tactics will depend.
Visit Your Dentist
If, after all the measures taken, the smell from the mouth does not disappear, call and make an appointment with your dentist for an appointment, where you can not only discuss the problem in detail, but also carry out the necessary procedures to clean your mouth. This may be the best solution because:
1) Not all people know how to most effectively use dental floss and a tooth cheek. After examining your mouth, the doctor will teach you the necessary techniques.
2) Effective cleaning of the teeth can be hindered by tartar that has grown on them. Your dentist will remove it.
3) If you have signs of periodontal disease ("gum disease"), the doctor will identify them and offer you appropriate treatment. Periodontal disease can seriously damage your teeth and the surrounding bone. This creates deep "pockets" between the teeth and gums where bacteria can accumulate - and they are so deep that they are difficult or even impossible to clean.
4) During the examination, your doctor will identify - if any - other untreated diseases that may increase bad breath.
5) If your doctor finds it unlikely that these diseases are the cause of the bad breath, he will suggest that you make an appointment with a therapist and give appropriate explanations.
It is necessary to thoroughly clean the tongue
Since most people tend to ignore this procedure, try making it part of your daily oral care routine. Very often, the use of this method alone - without additional measures - helps to eliminate an unpleasant odor. Recall again the "experiment" we recommended you do at the beginning of this section. Then we found that the front of the tongue has a less unpleasant odor than the back. This is because the anterior region of the tongue is constantly self-cleaning - and therefore less anaerobic bacteria accumulate on it. In the process of moving the tongue, its front part constantly rubs against the hard palate - this is how cleansing occurs. preventing the accumulation of bacteria. Unlike the front, the back of the tongue during its movement comes into contact only with the soft palate. In this case, effective cleaning is not obtained. Therefore, bacteria that cause bad breath accumulate mainly on the back of the tongue, and therefore this area needs periodic cleaning.
How to properly clean the tongue? In order to clean the back of the tongue, there are several ways, but they all have the same goal - to remove bacteria and food debris that accumulate in this area. When cleaning the tongue - no matter what method you use - you need to try to penetrate as far as possible in order to clean as much of its surface area as possible. If you start to choke, don't be surprised. This is a natural reaction, but over time this reflex should weaken.
How to clean the tongue with a toothbrush or a special brush.
To clean the surface of the tongue, you can use a toothbrush or a special tongue brush. Start brushing as far back as you can reach, then gradually move the brush strokes (directed forward) towards the front of the tongue. Movements should be made with some pressure on the surface of the tongue - but, of course, not too strong, so as not to cause irritation. To clean your tongue more effectively, you can use toothpaste, as it contains the same ingredients as mouth-cleansing liquids. You can learn more about this on the oral cleaners page. Pastes neutralizing volatile sulfur compounds. Because it is LSS that causes bad breath, toothpastes containing neutralizing LSS, such as chlorine dioxide or zinc, improve the freshness of your breath.
Pastes with antibacterial properties
If the toothpaste you use contains antibacterial agents - such as chlorine dioxide or cetylpyridone chloride - you can both expel and kill anaerobic bacteria when cleaning your tongue.
Although cleaning the tongue with a toothbrush can be quite satisfactory, many people prefer to use a special tongue scraper, believing this method to be more effective. Some patients claim that they choke less when scraping their tongue with a spoon than when cleaning it with a toothbrush or special brushes. In order to test your reaction to this method, you can conduct a simple experiment. Take an ordinary spoon in the kitchen (better than a teaspoon), turn it over and try to scrape her tongue. To do this, touch the back of the tongue with a spoon, press it lightly and pull it forward. Do it carefully, but without effort. Do not scrub too hard - this may irritate the surface of the tongue. If scraping as a method is not objectionable to you, buy a special spoon from the drugstore designed for this purpose. It is quite possible that it will clean the tongue more effectively than a teaspoon.
What types of liquid mouth cleaners can help get rid of bad breath?
Liquid mouthwashes, when used along with regular and effective tongue cleaning, brushing and flossing, can also help a lot in getting rid of bad breath. You should not just rely only on rinse aids and neglect the rest of the measures listed. The ability of liquid mouthwash to effectively fight bad breath is associated with some of its properties, namely:
A) antibacterial properties. If the mouthwash has the ability to kill bacteria, it can help reduce the amount of anaerobic bacteria in your mouth. Since it is these bacteria that secrete volatile sulfur compounds, which in turn form bad breath, the less of these bacteria in the mouth, the better.
C) The ability to neutralize volatile sulfur compounds. The composition of rinse aids includes components that have the ability to neutralize volatile sulfur compounds and the substances that form them. As you remember, volatile sulfur compounds are foul-smelling substances that form an unpleasant odor. If the purifier is able to reduce their content in your breath, then it will naturally be fresher.
Listed below are some substances that have the ability to effectively neutralize unpleasant odors. These substances are usually included in rinse aids sold in pharmacies.
A) Mouthwashes containing chlorine dioxide or sodium chlorite (Antibacterial / Neutralize volatile sulfur compounds)
Many dentists believe that mouthwashes containing chlorine dioxide or sodium chlorite, which produces chlorine dioxide, play a critical role in eliminating bad breath. Research data suggests that chlorine dioxide has a dual effect:
Chlorine dioxide is an oxidizing substance (meaning that it releases oxygen). Since most odor-causing bacteria are anaerobic (meaning they prefer to live in places where there is no oxygen), exposure to an oxidizing agent helps to reduce their numbers, which consequently reduces odor.
Chlorine dioxide also affects the level of volatile sulfur compounds in the mouth. It neutralizes those compounds that the bacteria have already isolated, and at the same time destroys those substances from which these compounds are subsequently formed. The result - the concentration of volatile sulfur compounds in the mouth is sharply reduced, and breathing, of course, becomes cleaner.
B) Zinc rinses (Neutralize volatile sulfur compounds)
Studies have shown that rinses containing zinc ions can also reduce the concentration of volatile sulfur compounds. It is believed that this is due to the ability of zinc ions to destroy those substances from which bacteria "make" sulfur compounds.
C) "Antiseptic" type rinses (Antibacterial)
"Antiseptic" cleaners (eg "Listerine" and equivalents) are also considered suitable odor neutralizers. The effectiveness of these products is related to their ability to kill bacteria that produce volatile sulfur compounds. However, "antiseptic" rinses themselves cannot destroy these compounds. Many dentists believe that "antiseptic" rinses are not the best choice. These statements are also caused by the fact that "antiseptic" rinses have a high alcohol content (often around 25 percent). Alcohol is a strong desiccant (dehydrating agent) and therefore dries out the soft tissues of the mouth. And if you remember our section on xerostomia, it is dry mouth that can be one of the causes of bad breath.
D) Rinses containing cetylpyridone chloride (antibacterial)
Cetylpyridinium chloride (cetylpyridinium chloride) is a component that is sometimes included in liquid rinses. With antibacterial action, it helps to reduce the number of anaerobic bacteria.
Do mints, lozenges, drops, sprays, and chewing gum help get rid of bad breath?
As well as liquid rinses, mints, lozenges, drops, sprays, chewing gum, etc. By themselves, they are not the most effective means of eliminating unpleasant odors. However, when used in combination with thorough and regular tongue cleaning, brushing, and flossing, these products can be very beneficial—especially if they contain substances (such as chlorine dioxide, sodium chlorite, and zinc) that can neutralize volatile sulfur compounds. In addition, mints, lozenges, and chewing gum stimulate saliva production. And we already know that saliva cleanses the oral cavity of bacteria and their secretions, which means it helps to get rid of an unpleasant odor.
How to use liquid rinse to achieve the greatest effect?
Bacteria that produce an unpleasant odor live both on the surface and in the depths of the white plaque that accumulates on and around the teeth, gums, tongue. An antibacterial rinse by itself cannot penetrate into the depth of this plaque, and therefore, before using such a cleaner, it is better to remove as much plaque as possible in your usual ways - by scraping your tongue, brushing your teeth and flossing. By rinsing your mouth with mouthwash after these procedures, you can remove the remaining bacteria. Rinse aid should not just be typed into the mouth, but should be rinsed thoroughly. Before rinsing, say "ah-ah-ah" - this will allow you to stick out your tongue, so that the rinse aid gets on its back area, where bacteria accumulate. After rinsing, the rinse aid should be spit out immediately. That is why children should not be allowed to use mouthwash - they may accidentally swallow it.
How to clean dentures
If your dentist has placed dentures in your mouth, they should definitely explain to you how to properly clean them. Because bacteria build up on your dentures just like on your natural teeth, on your tongue and gums, your doctor will advise you to clean both the outside and the inside of your dentures with a regular toothbrush or special brush. After cleaning the dentures, they must be placed in a container with an antiseptic liquid (which one - your dentist will also advise you).
What steps can you take to get rid of bad breath?
Drink more water
Oddly enough, drinking plenty of water throughout the day will also help you reduce bad breath. With a lack of water, your body will try to retain it, which will reduce the production of saliva, and it will be less effective in dissolving and washing away bacteria and their secretions that form an unpleasant smell. Daily water intake in sufficient quantities is especially important for those suffering from xerostomia (chronic dryness of the mouth).
Rinse your mouth with water
Rinsing your mouth with plain water will also help you reduce bad breath for a short period of time. Rinsing also dissolves and washes away bacteria secretions that harm the freshness of your breath.
Stimulate salivation
It will also help you reduce bad breath. You remember that saliva cleanses the mouth, dissolves and washes away bacteria and their secretions. The easiest way to stimulate salivation is to chew something. When chewing - anything - your body thinks that you are eating, and therefore it gives a signal to increase the production of saliva. (Saliva is a very important component in the digestion of food). You can, for example, chew clove seeds, dill, mint or parsley. Peppermints, chewing gum, and mints can help salivate. But: if you prefer these foods, make sure they are sugar-free. Sugar promotes the growth of those bacteria that can cause cavities.
Watch your oral hygiene especially carefully after eating protein foods.
Anaerobic bacteria release volatile sulfur compounds - the cause of bad breath - as a result of the consumption of proteins. After you have eaten meat, fish, or any other protein-rich food, clean your mouth thoroughly so that the smallest particles of protein food do not serve as a breeding ground for anaerobic bacteria.
Treatment of helminthiases helps to eliminate bad breath in children
Scientists note that parents often notice bad breath in children with intestinal helminthiasis (especially with enterobiasis), which disappears after the eradication of helminths. Scientists suggest that the cause of an unpleasant odor may be stagnation of intestinal contents due to the presence of worms.
What diseases cause bad breath?
- Diseases of the teeth and gums
Taking many medications can also adversely affect the freshness of breath.
Treatment for bad breath
First of all, for diagnosis and treatment, you need to contact your dentist. The doctor will identify whether there is caries or gum disease, will sanitize (disinfect) the oral cavity, remove tartar if present. As a rule, after this, the smell ceases to bother most patients.
If the dentist concludes that the smell does not originate in the oral cavity, but in deeper structures of the body, he will refer you to a general practitioner.
The therapist will prescribe an examination to determine the cause of your concerns and will treat the disease that he identifies. Many will be disappointed that they did not find the name of the pill for bad breath here, but smart people will realize that this treatment will be different depending on your personal cause of smell. A whole range of drugs may be needed, including antibiotics, which, as you know, cannot be used without determining the pathogen, and this can only be done through medical tests.
Which doctor should I contact if bad breath occurs:
- Dentist
- Gastroenterologist
- Therapist (general practitioner)
Bad breath is an actual problem for many modern people. On the one hand, it causes discomfort to others, since communication with a person who smells bad cannot cause positive emotions. On the other hand, this phenomenon can provoke the development of complexes in the carrier of an unpleasant odor. Some people are ashamed of communicating with relatives and friends because of the presence of an unpleasant smell. Consider how to overcome bad breath, the causes and treatment of this problem.
To effectively combat this phenomenon, it is very important to correctly determine the cause of its development. Bad odors on breathing and talking are a characteristic symptom of many diseases. Some of them do not pose a threat to life and appear as a result of a violation of metabolic processes or a negligent attitude to oral hygiene. However, in other situations, the cause of this phenomenon can be quite dangerous ailments that require immediate treatment. An example is the development of tumor processes in the throat, one of the main symptoms of which is the appearance of bad breath.
In medicine, the appearance of bad breath is called halitosis. This is not a disease, but a phenomenon that appears due to certain disorders in the body.
Doctors consider halitosis primarily as a symptom. Given the significant discomfort that it causes to the patient, many people seek to get rid of the unpleasant odor as quickly as possible. As mentioned earlier, the process of treating this phenomenon depends on the causes of its occurrence.
Very often, popular hygiene products (mouth rinses, special toothpastes or breath fresheners) are not enough to combat unpleasant odors, in such a situation it is important to eliminate the cause of the fetid odor.
The problem of bad breath was considered by ancient philosophers, who stated that nothing spoils a person as much as an “untidy mouth”. Nowadays, in various countries, from 30 to 65% of the population suffers from this disease. It is worth noting that residents of highly developed countries, whose citizens very often lead an unhealthy lifestyle, are most affected by this phenomenon.
Where to look for the causes of halitosis
In most cases, the cause of the development of the disease lies in:
In the first case, the main reason for the appearance of a bad smell is poor hygiene and the development of inflammatory processes in the oral cavity. If the cause lies in the respiratory tract, as a rule, the appearance of halitosis is caused by viral, infectious or chronic inflammatory processes.
If the problem lies in the gastrointestinal tract, the stink appears due to a wide variety of digestive disorders or diseases of the digestive system. Disorders in the work of the endocrine glands can greatly affect the composition of hormonal substances in the body. An increase in the concentration of certain hormones in saliva can provoke bad breath.
How to identify the presence of halitosis yourself
Very often people do not even realize that their breath is stale. There are also situations when a person is ashamed of his breath, considering it fetid, absolutely for no reason.
There are several ways that allow you to detect halitosis at home. The easiest way is to ask a loved one a question and ask for a frank answer, but not everyone is able to take this step, so the following methods will also work.
The fact is that a person very often does not feel his own smell, which others feel. This is the main reason why many do not even know that there is a problem.
It is best to test at home in the afternoon or evening. It is important that at least three hours pass after hygiene procedures. Some toothpastes can significantly mask odors for a certain amount of time.
Next, we will consider in detail the causes of bad breath and the treatment of this phenomenon.
The main causes of halitosis
In most cases, the causes of bad breath are hidden in the mouth. In this case, the help of a professional dentist may be required. Among the main reasons for the development of gilitosis are:
If the causes of bad breath are not related to the oral cavity, the situation worsens significantly, as this may indicate the presence of serious health problems. Very often, an unpleasant odor is associated with respiratory diseases. Its appearance may be caused by infectious or viral diseases, but in such a situation, halitosis will disappear after complete recovery. The situation is much more complicated in patients with chronic respiratory diseases. Chronic bronchitis, pharyngitis and other common diseases are often the cause of bad breath. If the stink from the mouth is associated with such ailments, it is almost impossible to get rid of it without stopping the chronic inflammatory process. If the digestive processes are disturbed, an unpleasant odor can appear, both due to the release of gases from the stomach, and due to changes in the composition of saliva.
First of all, such a problem is observed in patients with chronic gastritis, various ailments of the liver and pancreas. In a situation with liver diseases, a person can easily determine the presence of fetid odors by bitterness in the mouth. Halitosis due to hormonal disruptions is characteristic of a wide variety of disorders. Very often, a similar phenomenon is observed in women during the menstrual cycle. In such a situation, the composition of saliva changes significantly, which provokes an unpleasant odor.
The risk group includes people with tobacco or alcohol addiction. If moderate drinking doesn't do too much damage, drinking can lead to stomach inflammation, liver problems, and damage to the mouth and throat.
Tobacco also greatly increases the development of inflammatory processes in the oral cavity and respiratory system.
Bad breath in the morning is quite common. In such a situation, at night, due to insufficient saliva secretion and the presence of residues of small food particles, the number of harmful microorganisms that emit unpleasant odors greatly increases.
Most people manage to get rid of the bad smell after morning hygiene procedures. To completely eliminate the problem, it is enough to
thoroughly clean the oral cavity before going to bed and exclude the use of food in the evening.
Halitosis in tumor processes
Bad breath is regarded by oncologists as an alarming symptom indicating the development of tumor processes in the respiratory tract or oral cavity. In such a situation, bad breath is a consequence of the inflammatory process, which is provoked by the tumor.
With the development of cancer, a strong discharge of pus is characteristic. When a putrid odor appears, it is worth undergoing a medical examination. However, don't panic. This phenomenon can also be observed in the development of chronic inflammatory processes. An oncologist should be contacted if, in addition to bad breath, other alarming symptoms are also observed, which are characteristic of oncological diseases.
Bad breath is quite common in children. If at 4 years old a child has bad breath, there may be several reasons. It is quite difficult to teach children to brush their teeth thoroughly, so the reason most often lies in the poor hygienic condition of the oral cavity.
However, children are also often susceptible to the development of various infectious and viral diseases due to an insufficiently strengthened immune system. The bad breath of a baby can be caused by colds and viral diseases of the respiratory tract, as well as jaundice, which young children get sick quite often.
If the child does not have other alarming symptoms, most likely, the problem will be solved after improving the quality of hygiene care.
Who is most susceptible to the disease
There are several factors that significantly increase the risk of bad breath. The likelihood of developing halitosis greatly increases in the presence of:
- disorders in the work of the endocrine system;
- excess weight;
- salivation problems;
- increased gas formation during digestion;
- hormonal disruptions;
- immune system disorders;
- disorders in the work of the intestines;
- diseases of the stomach, liver and gallbladder;
- inflammatory processes in the oral cavity;
- bad habits (tobacco, alcohol or drug addiction).
As mentioned earlier, bad breath is often caused by various disorders in the body, so the presence of a wide variety of factors significantly increases the likelihood of its occurrence. Poor hygienic condition of the oral cavity, combined with other, less significant factors, significantly exacerbates the situation.
In the case of bad habits, a combined blow is applied to many body systems. Tobacco smoke significantly irritates the mucous membrane of the mouth, actively contributing to the appearance of inflammation. It also contributes to the development of chronic diseases of the respiratory system, which entails the appearance of a smell of pus. Alcohol harms the oral mucosa, respiratory system and stomach.
Professional diagnostics
If a person finds the presence of bad breath, first of all, you should contact your dentist. In 80% of cases of bad breath, problems are caused by dental reasons. The dentist will be able to carefully examine the oral cavity and find the cause of the problem, after which the doctor will prescribe the appropriate treatment.
If the appearance of halitosis is not associated with dentistry, the patient will have to visit specialists in a wide variety of areas to identify the cause of the pathology. Specialists such as a gastroenterologist, ENT, endocrinologist can help.
Treatment of halitosis
The process of treating halitosis depends on the cause of the development of this disorder. As mentioned above, in most cases this phenomenon is associated with 
oral problems. To get rid of bad breath in such a situation, the help of a dentist and more thorough care for the hygienic condition of the mouth will be enough.
The dentist will help remove pathogenic microorganisms in the most inaccessible places, after which the inflammation will disappear. If the problem is caries, the dentist will treat this disease. You should also consult a dentist for oral care. This will help avoid problems in the future. To improve the condition of the oral cavity, you should:
- Pick the right toothbrush. It should not be too hard, since hard brushes irritate the mucous membrane due to excessive mechanical stress. The brush should be able to remove dirt from hard-to-reach places. Brush your teeth for at least 5 minutes. You also need to pay attention to removing plaque from the tongue.
- Choose the right toothpaste. Some toothpastes have medicinal properties. Their use is recommended in case of inflammation of the gums and problems with the teeth and oral mucosa. However, some types of toothpaste irritate the mucous membranes. In certain situations, an individual reaction of the body to some of its constituent elements is possible. It is important to choose a toothpaste that will have the most beneficial effect on the oral cavity.
- Use dental floss. It will help to thoroughly remove plaque and food debris between the teeth. This is one of the main centers of development of pathogenic microorganisms.
- Use rinse solutions. The use of mouthwash will complement the positive effect of the fight against pathogenic microflora and help freshen your breath. Many of them contain extracts of beneficial herbs that help relieve inflammation.
You can also use aerosol-based mouth fresheners and chewing gums, but their effect is short-lived and not always noticeable.
If the cause of halitosis is hidden in another problem, it is important to identify and get rid of it. Many people learn what to do in such a situation from traditional medicine recipes. Indeed, folk remedies can be very effective. Garlic, lemon juice and ginger decoction will help improve the hygienic condition of the oral cavity. They also have a beneficial effect on the state of the respiratory system. A decoction of milk with sage helps to get rid of chronic diseases of the respiratory system. Many plants, vegetables and fruits have antibacterial properties. Medicinal plants can improve the functioning of all body systems, so a variety of folk recipes will help you find a way to treat any situation.
Do not forget that the help of a qualified specialist will help not only to choose the most optimal method of treatment, but also to identify a variety of, if they are the cause of an unpleasant odor. The treatment prescribed by the doctor can be combined with the use of folk remedies to increase efficiency.
Since bad habits significantly contribute to the development of bad breath, it is almost impossible to get rid of the problem without giving up the use of tobacco, alcohol or drugs. Even if it is temporarily possible to eliminate the cause of the development of halitosis, very soon the problem will return again.
Normalization of the diet helps to establish digestive processes. It is important to eat fresh and boiled vegetables, with the exception of those that contribute to increased gas formation. It is very important to reduce the consumption of fried foods and fast food.
Bad breath is a solvable problem. In most cases, the pathologies that cause this disease do not cause severe damage to the health of the body and do not pose a threat to the life of the patient. However, this phenomenon should not be ignored, because if it is caused by certain disorders in the body, then complications may develop.
Bad breath - halitosis.
When bad breath smells - it's unpleasant. And not only to himself, so to speak, the source of trouble, but also to everyone who is nearby. Everyone knows that it won’t just smell so bad - this is a symptom of problems with the gastrointestinal tract or oral cavity. Bad breath can be associated with disorders in the gastrointestinal tract in diseases of the respiratory system, oral mucosa, as well as poor hygiene. Therefore, first of all, it is necessary to find out the root cause and begin treatment of the underlying disease.
The most common cause of bad breath is poor dental hygiene. In women, halitosis is often associated with endocrinological problems. People with high blood sugar often complain of halitosis. And the special treatment prescribed by the dentist is often ineffective. This is not surprising - after all, the reason lies not in the mouth, but in the pancreas. So no dental hygiene products will help in this situation. The disease itself needs to be treated.
And while you are looking for the essence of the problem and treating it, read how to get rid of the smell (when the underlying disease passes, this symptom will also disappear).
Folk remedies can also perfectly cope with the problem of bad breath.
So, here are a few ways to get rid of bad breath:
1. Eat candied anise seeds and nuts every day on an empty stomach.
2. Mix 2 tbsp. vegetable oil (ideally olive) with 1 tsp. salt and rinse your mouth with this mixture for 3-5 minutes twice a day - in the morning and in the evening. Do not eat or drink anything after rinsing.
3. 20-30 drops of alcohol tincture of St. John's wort (made according to the instructions on the package) dilute in 0.5 tbsp. water and rinse your mouth.
4. Eat after each meal, write 0.5 tsp. ginger powder.
5. Eat 1-2 small apples on an empty stomach in the morning, rinsing your mouth with clean warm water before.
Rinsing for bad breath
1. Pour 0.5 liters of boiling water 2 tbsp. spoons of gray alder leaves. Leave overnight, strain. Rinse your mouth four to six times a day.
2. Pour 2 teaspoons of wormwood into a glass of boiling water, leave for 20 minutes, strain. Rinse your mouth four to six times a day.
3. Take equal proportions of oak bark, St. John's wort and nettle, birch leaf, chamomile flowers. Brew as a tea and drink 1/2 cup three to four times a day.
Take 2 tsp. anise seeds, pour them with 1 cup boiling water, leave for 20 minutes, and then strain. Rinse your mouth and throat after eating. Anise has anti-inflammatory, bactericidal action. It is useful for the respiratory and digestive systems, it can be used to cure many diseases of the throat and gums.
Get rid of bad breath
Chew on a sage sprig or chew on a coffee bean.
Herbs to relieve bad breath
To reduce bad breath, medicinal plants are recommended that have bactericidal, antiseptic and deodorizing properties. The following infusions and decoctions have a good therapeutic effect.
Mix St. John's wort and wormwood (equally). Pour 1 cup boiling water over 1 tbsp. l. collection, leave for 45 minutes, strain. Rinse your mouth 4-5 times a day after meals, in the morning and at night.
Grass of wild strawberry, blueberry and peppermint (equally) - prepare an infusion with this collection and use as in the first recipe.
Mix calamus rhizomes and oak bark in equal parts. Pour 1 tbsp. l. collecting 0.5 l of water, bring to a boil, boil for 15 minutes, let it brew for 20 minutes and strain. The resulting decoction is also used for rinsing several times a day after meals.
Folk remedies for bad breath
There can be several reasons for bad breath: caries, chronic tonsillitis, gastritis, periodontal disease, gingivitis, and so on.
From traditional medicine, try using the following recipes.
- Rinse your mouth with infusion of calamus rhizomes, alcohol tincture of St. John's wort, diluted with water (20 drops of alcohol tincture in half a glass of cool boiled water).
- With bad breath, an infusion of leaves or berries of wild strawberries is also used.
(for 1 part of raw materials take 5 parts of water). - An infusion of thyme herb (1:3) is also effective. 1 st. Pour a spoonful of chopped celery roots with a glass of vodka, insist in a dark, warm place for 2 weeks, strain.
Dilute 1 teaspoon of tincture in a glass of warm boiled water and rinse your mouth and throat 2-3 times a day. - 1 st. pour a spoonful of horseradish gruel with a glass of vodka, leave for 3 days, periodically shaking the contents, strain. 1 st. dilute a spoonful of tincture in a glass of warm water and use the resulting solution for rinsing the mouth and throat.
This tool helps not only with bad breath, but also with inflammation of the gums. - Wormwood is considered a popular remedy for eliminating bad breath in many countries.
Prepare strong wormwood tea: 1 tbsp. brew a spoonful of raw materials with a glass of boiling water and insist for 40 minutes.
Rinse your mouth with wormwood tea after eating. - Slowly chew and hold nutmeg in your mouth, it will make your breath fresh and pleasant (nutmeg eliminates even the smell of onions and garlic). In addition, this nut strengthens the heart, has a beneficial effect on the stomach and liver, and improves digestion. The dose of nutmeg at the reception is -1 -1.5 g.
- Rinse your mouth with fresh sorrel leaf juice diluted 1:2 with water.
To prepare juice, wash fresh sorrel leaves, crush them in a porcelain mortar with a wooden pestle, tie them in gauze and squeeze.
Using a juicer is not recommended, since sorrel, due to its high acidity, causes damage to the metal and quickly oxidizes itself. - Dissolve 0.5 teaspoon of table salt in a glass of warm water, draw the resulting solution into a small rubber pear and inject the composition into the nostril. At the same time, tilt your head back, and hold the pear at a right angle to your face.
Do the same with the other nostril. Spit out any liquid that enters your mouth.
At first, there will be an unpleasant feeling, but then you will endure the procedure easier and easier.
This method, in addition to eliminating bad breath, also restores the acid-base balance. - Add a few drops of lemon juice to the mint infusion and rinse your mouth after brushing your teeth. This infusion also strengthens the gums.
With bad breath
Chew fresh parsley leaves and root, fennel seeds.
Roasted nuts neutralize the smell of onions and garlic well.
Rinse your mouth with an infusion of dried apricot fruits or an infusion of a mixture of spices (cinnamon, cardamom, bay leaf).
Recipe for improved digestion and fresh breath.
If you have bad breath due to digestive problems, then this recipe can help get rid of it. Grate the zest of 3-4 lemons, add 2 tbsp. l. honey and 1/2 cup mint infusion. Take 1 tsp. 2 times a day after meals.
Also, to eliminate bad breath, try temporarily replacing toothpaste with powdered milk. If you sometimes brush your teeth with powdered milk, then not only the smell from the mouth disappears, but also the formation of tartar. Teeth become whiter and gum bleeding decreases.
Fresh Breath Tooth Elixir
Dissolve in 1 tbsp. warm water, 2 drops of peppermint and lemon. Rinse your mouth with the solution 2 times a day, morning and evening, after brushing your teeth.
