If your teeth are clean, you are far less likely to develop tooth decay. A clean mouth also lowers your risk for gum disease, tooth shifting or loss, and even systemic illnesses. Most people are aware that they need to brush and floss, but you may be unsure exactly what the proper schedule would be. Here is how often to brush, floss, and have your teeth professionally cleaned.
BRUSHING
It is best to brush your teeth after every meal. If that is impossible, aim for at least twice per day. Use a soft-bristled brush that feels comfortable in both your hand and your mouth. It also matters how long you brush your teeth. Spend 30 seconds in each quadrant of your mouth, for a total of two minutes each brushing. People are notoriously bad at calculating time, so consider using an electric toothbrush with a built-in timer or setting a separate timer to tell you when to switch quadrants.
If you are unable to brush your teeth right after a meal or snack, rinse your mouth thoroughly. You can also stimulate saliva production throughout the day by sucking on sugar-free hard candy or chewing unsweetened gum.
FLOSSING
Floss your teeth once every day with traditional floss, or a plastic interdental cleaner. It is best to floss your teeth first, followed by brushing. Work steadily but slowly, and be careful not to make any sudden or sharp movements that could cut your gums. If you are unsure of proper flossing technique, ask your dentist or hygienist for a demonstration.
PROFESSIONAL CLEANING
Most people need a professional dental cleaning once every six months. Those who are at high risk for dental disease such as periodontal disease, though, may need cleanings every three months instead. If it has been awhile since your last cleaning, you might need a deep cleaning known as scaling and root planing. If you are undergoing active treatment for gum disease or other issues, you might need to have your teeth cleaned even more often. Your dentist will advise you on the right cleaning schedule for your unique situation.
Keeping your mouth clean and healthy is a lifelong process that requires you to maintain focus and dedication. However, it is an easy and inexpensive way to prevent painful and costly dental treatments later on. Unless your dentist suggests a different schedule, follow the guidelines above. With a bit of hard work, you can ensure that your mouth remains clean and disease-free.
What happens if you use someone else’s toothbrush? Well, you may exchange some germs, bacteria, and viruses with the toothbrush owner.
Using someone else’s toothbrush may not be the first thing on your mind. But, when sleepy, you may accidentally use a toothbrush that’s not yours.
However, if you are doing it intentionally, you must stop! It’s vital to have your toothbrush. In fact, everyone in the house must possess their toothbrush and not share it with others for various reasons.
Read on for more information.
5 Reasons for Not Using Someone Else’s Toothbrush
First, using someone else’s toothbrush can gross you out. It’s not pleasant, and what’s the point of sharing the toothbrush if you can easily buy one from the market? Nowadays, it’s easier to find toothbrushes online. Some people go to the extent of eco-friendly toothbrushes.
You can always consult your dentist for oral health concerns. There is information available online, but your dentist is the best and most reliable source of information.
Consider the following:
#1. You Can Catch A Cold And Flu
If the toothbrush owner is your partner or a family member has a cold or flu, using their toothbrush can give you the cold or flu. It’s wise not to share the toothbrushes, and it’s best if you can keep your toothbrush in a separate container if you use the same container; then be sure to buy the toothbrushes with distinct features so that you don’t make these mistakes!
#2. You Get The Germs
You never know what the other person’s oral hygiene is like, which means you can get germs. There could be many germs and bacteria living on the toothbrush bristles. In addition, the person may not be cleaning the toothbrush correctly. When you don’t want to get the germs, avoiding this mistake is best. When you share the same container for toothbrushes, the mistake of using the toothbrush is possible, so use a different container.
#3. You Feel Gross
Using the other person’s toothbrush can make you feel gross. You will not like the feeling, and it lingers. So it’s best to tell the other person you mistakenly used their toothbrush. The same goes for the toothbrush owner. If you use someone’s toothbrush, they will not like it! Let the person know so they can toss the toothbrush in the garbage once and for all.
#4. There Could Be Health Issues
Sharing a toothbrush also means you could be inviting health issues. If you are deliberately sharing the toothbrush, it’s not ideal. For example, if your partner has COVID-19 and uses the same toothbrush, it won’t be suitable for your health. Similarly, there could be other health concerns, so it’s best to use separate toothbrushes and not share the same one. Also, avoid the chances of a mistake, and it’s possible by using different containers or keeping the toothbrush with yourself! Whatever is easy for you.
#5. The Other Person Will Catch Your Germs
You are not alone here! If you are using a toothbrush by mistake, you could be putting the other person at risk. Likewise, if you have bad oral hygiene, you can put someone at risk of tooth decay and periodontal disease. Always talk to the other person about the importance of oral health. If people are okay with sharing the toothbrush or if they don’t mind the mistake, it’s best to educate politely on how passing the germs or getting germs from the other person can affect health.
Tips to Keep In Mind for Toothbrush Use
You are taking care of your oral health counts. There are several ways you are taking care of yourself and your oral health; for example, you floss and brush your teeth, visit the dentist, go for professional cleaning, and buy suitable toothbrushes. But, there is more that you should do, such as:
Buy your toothbrush. You can buy the one you prefer the most. For example, some would opt for the electric ones while others would like the bamboo ones. It’s your choice, but make sure you have a separate toothbrush and don’t share the toothbrush with anyone else in the family.
You can use a separate container for your toothbrush or keep your toothbrush in a different location. If you are using the same bathroom as everyone else in the family, then make a habit of keeping your toothbrush away from the rest of the family members, especially if you mistakenly pick up others’ toothbrushes in the morning.
Let the other person know if you have been using their toothbrush accidentally or on purpose. You don’t want to put other people at risk. Also, if someone else is using your toothbrush, ask them why not get their own. Or you can gift a toothbrush to this person and buy yourself another to avoid the hassle.
It’s best if you don’t opt for similar toothbrushes. It would be risky even if the toothbrushes appear the same and have different colors. Go for a unique design so that you can easily remember your toothbrush, and others will remember theirs too.
You have to be extra cautious if someone has bleeding gums, health issues, or poor oral hygiene. It may seem trivial, but it’s not, as it can risk your health. So, why take the chance and be cautious from the beginning?
Visit your dentist regularly, and never take a chance on your oral health. If you have more questions or concerns, it’s always better to talk to your dentist, as they have the expertise and experience to guide you in the right direction about your health.
For decades, dentists have urged patients to practice daily flossing; however, only about 12% of Americans actually floss on a daily basis. Surprisingly the concept of flossing has been around for centuries; research has even shown evidence of Prehistoric dental flossing practices. So with such a vast history, why do most adults still neglect to floss their teeth? We may never know. But, here are some facts you should know about dental floss and how it came to be:
The Dental Floss Timeline
Prehistoric – Although an exact date has not been determined, researchers have found evidence that flossing was practiced even in prehistoric times. Teeth from prehistoric humans have shown signs of grooves left by flossing and/or toothpicks. It is believed that horsehair was used as a floss and twigs were often used as toothpicks. This allowed prehistoric humans to remove any debris in their teeth.
1815 – In 1815, an American dentist, Dr. Levi Spear Parmly introduced the world to the idea of using silk thread which was waxed as a form of dental floss. He also published the book, A Practical Guide to the Management of Teeth, which discussed his belief on the importance of not only brushing daily but also flossing.
1882 – In 1882, the Codman and Shurleft Company began mass-producing un-waxed silk floss.
1898 – In 1898, Johnson & Johnson was granted the first patent for dental floss.
1940s – During World War II, the cost of silk began to rise. As a result, Dr. Charles Bass developed nylon as the replacement for dental floss. He is also responsible for making floss an essential part of oral hygiene techniques.
Dental Floss Today
Since the beginning of dental floss, it has evolved quite a bit over time. From horsehair to silk, new dental floss advances are made each year. We have seen Gore-Tex, spongy floss, and even soft floss. Floss picks have also become more popular, allowing for easier flossing. The most recent advancement in floss is now the water flosser, which is essentially a device used to shoot small jets of water in-between teeth to flush out debris.
Receding gums, also called gingival recession, refers to the exposure of the roots and nerves of teeth due to a loss or retraction of gum tissue. Receding gums are a common problem in Americans 40 years and older, and often occur as a result of poor oral hygiene. Avoiding certain foods may help reduce symptoms or the progression of the condition. Consult with your dentist about causes and prevention of receding gums.
Receding Gums
There are several possible causes for gum recession such as abnormal tooth position, insufficient gum tissue, overaggressive brushing, dental infections, eating disorders, chewing tobacco, teeth grinding, according to the book "Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine." Bacteria, plaque and tars can accumulate in your mouth and eat away at your gum tissue.
Gum recession takes many months and years to become noticeable or symptomatic. Common symptoms associated with receding gums include sensitive teeth, tooth pain from exposed nerves, bad breath, tooth discoloration, inflamed gums, and gums that bleed easily with flossing or brushing.
Avoid Acidic Foods
Bacteria and other pathogenic microorganisms thrive in an acidic environment, which then contribute to gum disease, inflammation and receding, according to the book "Human Biochemistry." Further, excessively acidic foods can damage the protective layer of your teeth. Examples of acidic foods and beverages include excessive consumption of meats, citrus fruits, white bread, pasta made with white flour, pickled and fermented foods, alcoholic beverages, coffee and black tea.
Avoid Sugary Foods
Sugary foods are highly acidic and provide potential bacteria with an easy food source, which is why excessive consumption of sugar greatly increases the incidence of dental cavities and gum diseases, according to the book "Advanced Nutrition and Human Metabolism." Examples of sugary foods and beverages include candy, donuts, cakes, muffins, chocolate, soda pop, energy drinks and liqueurs. Chewy carbohydrates with gluten, such as white bread and donuts, stick to your teeth, and can get caught between your teeth and gums when they recede, which contributes to gingivitis or gum-tissue inflammation.
Avoid Cold Foods
When your gums recede, the nerves that supply your teeth are exposed, which make them more sensitive to cold foods and beverages. Avoiding colds foods such as ice cream, snow cones, popsicles, ice cubes, and refrigerated fruits and vegetables may reduce some of the pain that is commonly associated with receding gums. Crunching on ice cubes, or any hard foods such as nuts, may loosen teeth that have become weak due to receding gums. Instead, eat or drink room temperature or heated items that are soft in texture. Further, ask your dentist about special toothpastes that are designed to reduce tooth sensitivity.
Does it seem like you always have sore gums? Maybe they’re red, puffy, or even bleed whenever you brush and floss. If you’re wondering “why do my gums hurt so much?”, you’re not the first person to ask. Sore gums are one of the most common conditions that we see in the dental office. Fortunately, they’re also pretty straightforward to treat. But wait too long, and sore gums could wind up costing you your smile! Don’t ignore the warning signs.
Common Reasons for Having Sore Gums
Sore gums are usually the result of an infection or some sort of traumatic injury (like biting down on a chip the wrong way, or jabbing yourself with a toothbrush). The good news is that in most cases, it’s preventable and treatable without going to a dentist, assuming you catch symptoms early. But if sore gums are allowed to go untreated, they typically become so severe that professional care is the only option.
It’s probably safe to say that in 9-out-of-10 cases, sore gums are going to be from something like gingivitis. The word “gingivitis” simply means inflammation (“-itis”) of the gums (gingiva). Swollen gums tend to be tender too. Nearly all cases of gingivitis are because of inadequate brushing and flossing habits. If your oral hygiene routine isn’t what it should be, that’s probably all there is to blame.
However, there are other reasons for sore gums. Such as ulcers, abscessed teeth, and even sinus infections. Understanding the different symptoms and warning signs can help you roll out a process of elimination before calling your dentist’s office.
Reasons You Have Sore Gums
1. Gingivitis
Almost everyone experiences gingivitis at one point or another. It’s typically due to inadequate oral hygiene practices, allowing the plaque to sit next to your gums and irritate them. Since your immune system detects higher levels of bacteria in those areas, it rushes antibodies to the adjacent gum tissues (which is what triggers symptoms of swelling and bleeding.)
Symptoms
Classic symptoms of gingivitis include red or swollen gums. Your gum tissues may also bleed whenever you brush or floss. They are usually tender to the touch.
Treatment
An improved brushing and flossing routine are a must. Most people can reverse gingivitis within 10-14 days if they brush and floss appropriately. If your bleeding gums continue, contact your dentist for further advice diagnosis, or treatment.
2. Periodontal Disease
Left untreated, gingivitis will eventually progress into periodontal disease, a form of gum disease which is the leading cause of tooth loss.
Symptoms
Bone loss, gum recession, “pockets” around the roots of teeth, heavy tartar buildup, and bad breath. Aggressive gum disease can also affect your overall wellness and underlying medical conditions.
Treatment
A series of deep cleanings (scaling and root planing) will remove the source of infection so that you can prevent additional bone loss.
3. Canker Sores
Oral ulcers can be in the form of a canker sore or fever blister. Some are caused by viruses, others from trauma/injury.
Symptoms
Different types of ulcers have different types of “looks” to them. Some are raw. Others pop up in clusters of small blisters (cold sores) or along your lips.
Treatment
Most canker sores go away on their own within a week or two. If you tend to get frequent flare-ups, be sure to see your dentist for a prescription.
4. Stress & Anxiety
If you’re experiencing severe stress, you may notice that you’re struggling with inflammation or swelling in various parts of your body. Your gums included. When we’re stressed, it weakens our immune system and can make us more prone to gingivitis.
Symptoms
Stress can manifest itself in several ways. From difficulty sleeping and concentrating to loss of appetite or chewing on our fingernails, all of us handle it in different ways. Some of us tend to clench our teeth tightly together, which can make our TMJ and gums sore.
Treatment
Meditation, mindfulness, exercise, and altering your lifestyle can all help with easing symptoms of stress. If you clench your teeth, be sure to get a night guard/bite splint to reduce damage to your tooth enamel and jaw joints.
5. Poor Dental Hygiene/Home Care
Whenever you aren’t brushing or flossing enough, dental plaque naturally accumulates on your teeth along the gums. In turn, your body reacts to the presence of bacteria by rushing antibodies to that area, causing swollen, tender, or bleeding gums.
Symptoms
The first thing you’ll notice is visible white, filmy buildup along your gums. Next, your gum tissues will turn red, swell, or bleed whenever you touch them.
Treatment
By improving your plaque removal techniques and cleaning your teeth more frequently, you can eliminate plaque buildup and prevent your immune system from going into overdrive. Daily flossing is a must, and be sure to brush at least twice a day.
6. Brushing Too Hard Or Flossing Incorrectly
Being way too aggressive with your toothbrush and floss isn’t “better” because you’re doing it harder. It can actually damage your gums and make it impossible for them to heal back to where they were to begin with.
Symptoms
If you’re brushing too hard or being too rough with your floss, your gums will probably start to recede or look misshaped around your teeth. There may be exposed root surfaces or visible irregularities in your gum tissues.
Treatment
Only apply barely enough pressure with your toothbrush to where your tissue blanches. Nothing more than that. And when you floss, wrap it tightly around your tooth so that it slips under the gum line without cutting into them. Floss can slide under your gums by at least a couple of millimeters or more without causing any damage.
Prevention
In most scenarios, preventing sore gums starts and ends with good home care. But if you don’t brush or floss as you should, symptoms can easily begin to appear after several days. Great oral hygiene is a daily habit and important for removing the bacteria responsible for oral inflammation. Here are a few key points to consider:
Use an electric, soft, or extra-soft toothbrush twice a day for a minimum of two minutes
When brushing your teeth, focus on the gums by slightly angling the bristles toward the gum line
Do not brush aggressively or scrub your gum tissues with a lot of heavy pressure
Clean between teeth and under your gums each day with floss or a water flosser to reach bacteria that brushing cannot
Schedule professional dental cleanings at least once every six months (or more frequently if you have a history of gum disease)
Rinse with a gentle, antimicrobial mouthwash that contains essential oils to help combat dental plaque and gingivitis
Use a warm saltwater rinse as needed to alleviate tender gums
When to See a Doctor
If your gums are sore and you’ve re-vamped your oral hygiene routine, give yourself about 10-14 days of steady brushing and flossing. By that point in time, symptoms of mild to moderate gingivitis should be significantly better. But if they aren’t, there’s a good chance you could have more serious gum disease that requires professional attention.
Remember gum problems and be serious, gum disease doesn’t just cause gum pain. It also leads to tooth loss and strains your immune system. Untreated periodontal disease (a form of gum disease) can put you at risk for a stroke, heart attack, diabetes, preeclampsia, pneumonia, ED, and even stillbirth.
Any time you have sore, swollen, or bleeding gums longer than two weeks (with good dental health home care) it’s time to call your dentist’s office and make an appointment. Especially if it’s been more than six months since your last checkup and cleaning. Chances are, you’ll need a good cleaning to remove tartar buildup that’s irritating your gum tissue. But if it’s something else, your dentist can help you pinpoint what’s going on and discuss the best way to treat it.
If you hear the term antibiotic prophylaxis and think, “it's all greek to me,“ that's because, well... it is. Prophylaxis is Greek for “advance guard,“ and in this case, it refers to using antibiotics to help you prevent infection while undergoing certain dental treatments. If you're wondering if you'll need antibiotic prophylaxis, we'll let you know the specific conditions in which it's recommended so you can go into your appointment confident that you're getting the dental treatment that will make you smile.
An Important Note on Antibiotic Resistance
Antibiotics are considered one of the most important scientific discoveries of the 20th century. Bacterial infections that were once considered serious have become preventable and treatable. However, bacteria are adapting and beginning to build up a resistance to some antibiotics because of how much they’re prescribed, so it’s important they’re only utilized when necessary.
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), antibiotic resistance is one of the biggest health challenges of our time. The CDC says that “appropriate antibiotic prescribing means antibiotics are only prescribed when needed, and when needed, the right antibiotic is selected and prescribed at the right dose and for the right duration.” They cite a study revealing that over 30% of antibiotics prescribed are unnecessary. And specific to dental procedures, an Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality-funded study found that ”about 81 percent antibiotic prescriptions given to patients before a dental procedure to prevent cardiac infections were considered unnecessary by current guidelines.”
Your dental and medical professionals are in the best position to determine if you need antibiotics. If you’re wondering if you need them and why – it’s important for you to ask.
When Are Antibiotics Needed for Prevention?
According to the American Dental Association, there are very few circumstances in which antibiotics should be used for preventive measures before dental procedures.
People with prosthetic joints were once prescribed antibiotics before dental procedures, believed to be at a higher risk of a blood infection affecting their prosthetic. Studies have since shown otherwise, and the ADA now recommends against it.
People with specific heart conditions may be at a higher risk of infective endocarditis (bacteria reaching the heart through the bloodstream) but in fewer cases than previously thought – limited mostly to valvular heart conditions or congenital heart defects.
Commonly Prescribed Antibiotics
Amoxicillin is the most commonly prescribed oral medication for antibiotic prophylaxis. If you're unable to take oral medication, your doctor may prescribe an intramuscular (IM) shot or intravenous (IV) infusion of another antibiotic like ampicillin or cefazolin. If you're allergic to certain antibiotics, your surgeon might give you a dose of clindamycin instead.
Dosing Requirements and Side Effects
If your dental and medical professional determine antibiotic prophylaxis is a necessary preventive measure for you, your dosage will depend on your age, size, and the antibiotic you're prescribed. Typically, oral antibiotics should be taken one hour before your procedure and are best taken with a small amount of food. They can also be taken up to a few hours after the procedure if you forgot to take them before your treatment, but it's best to follow your surgeon's instructions and arrive at your dental appointment fully prepared. Because different antibiotics have different side effects, talk with your dental professional about what you can expect and let them know if you have any questions or concerns.
Very few patients need to take antibiotics before seeing a dentist, so it's unlikely you will have to build taking a pill into your routine on appointment days. If you've recently undergone joint or heart surgery, talk to your dental professional about the need for antibiotic prophylaxis for dental or dental hygiene treatment. They know the specifics of your condition and will best be able to offer advice tailored to your individual needs. At least now, you can have an informed conversation with them without saying, “it's all Greek to me!“ And you can be confident you're getting treatment that will make you smile.
When chewing gum throughout the day, most people don’t really think about whether it’s helpful or harmful to their teeth. Plenty of chewing gum companies promote the benefits of their products, but how accurate is this really? It turns out that it could depend on the type of gum you have.
Chewing gum that contains sugar increases your chances of developing cavities, but sugar-free gum could actually achieve the opposite. With mouth cleaning properties, chomping on some minty fresh gum throughout the day could contribute to good oral health.
The benefits of sugar-free gum for your oral health
Put simply, popping some sugar-free gum in your mouth throughout the day stimulates the production of saliva. This helps to wash away acid, sugar and leftover food that can turn into plaque. Over time, plaque can eventually cause cavities and tooth decay, so regular chewing doesn’t only give your breath a boost, but could also help keep your teeth strong and healthy.
Chewing sugar-free gum for 20 minutes after consuming food or drink can increase the flow of saliva and help replace minerals lost by acidity in foods. So, you can lower the amount of acid that attacks the teeth and reduce the risk of tooth erosion.
How sugar-free gum can reduce bacteria
Some sugar-free chewing gum is sweetened with something called xylitol, a naturally occurring sugar substitute that can help to reduce bacteria and keep your mouth clean. Xylitol actually inhibits the growth of cavity-causing bacteria, by stopping the bacteria from adhering to the teeth. With continued use over time, the types of bacteria in the mouth change and less bacteria can survive on the tooth surfaces.
Can sugar-free gum whiten your teeth?
Many chewing gums claim to have a “whitening” effect. While these products cannot change the natural shade of your teeth, they may be able to reduce staining caused by drinking coffee or red wine, or smoking.
These effects are minimal and usually short-term, and sugar-free gum isn’t a substitute for professional teeth whitening.
Does this mean you still need to brush your teeth?
Absolutely! While sugar-free gum can help to keep your mouth clean, it shouldn’t be the sole focus of your oral health routine. You should still brush your teeth twice a day using fluoride toothpaste, and floss daily with dental floss or interdental brushes.
If you’re unable to brush your teeth immediately after a meal, we recommend chewing sugar-free gum instead. This can help to break down any harmful bacteria until you’re able to properly brush your teeth, but remember that gum cannot reach in between your teeth like brushing and flossing can.
Helpful tips when preparing for your next dental visitThere are few things more daunting for some than a visit to the dentist! While the bright lights and intimidating equipment can be a tad overwhelming – we at Iris Dental aim to make your time with us as comfortable and friendly as possible.
Here are five do’s and don’ts to help you prepare for your next appointment:1. Don’t brush or floss excessivelyWhile we recommend regular brushing and flossing, it is important that you do not do so excessively especially if you have, like many, not been flossing regularly between appointments.
While you should aim to brush twice and floss once a day, suddenly overdoing it in preparation for your appointment may do more harm than good, like cause damage to your gum tissue.
2. Do prepare your kidsA trip to your family dentist may very well be a necessary evil for your child, but it needn’t be his/her worst nightmare.
A few days before your appointment, try to eliminate the idea of a surprise, which is often the main cause of fear in your little one’s mind.
A good tip is to let them know what to expect. If your child is booked for a cleaning, explain how the procedure will be done in a calm and simple manner.
We understand that an overactive imagine may work against us, so if our little visitor is still nervous about his/her visit, let us know beforehand so that we can work with you to make the procedure as comfortable as possible.
Essentially, ours should be a long-term relationship.
3. Don’t consume alcohol before your appointmentAs tempting as it may be to take the edge off, we recommend that you hold off on the drinking until after your appointment.
Alcohol is a form of anaesthetic and may interfere with your ability to form a clot after extractions. Excessive drinking also puts you at risk of throwing up and could alter the way you react to an anaesthetic.
If your reason for taking a drink is to calm your nerves, we suggest that you rather speak to our dentists about your fears when you book your appointment. Our understanding and friendly professionals will do their best to have you feeling right at home in no time. After all, it is our job to make you smile.
4. Do write down questionsDentistry can be a mystery but your smile is as important to us as it is to you.
If you experienced strange sensations or simply have questions about dentistry options, please do not hesitate to ask. As family dentists, we pride ourselves on developing and maintaining relationships with our clients through dialogue. So before your next visit, jot down your questions or concerns and let our dentists put your mind at ease.
5. Do let us know your medical historyAlthough you may think your medical history might not relate to your procedure, it is vital for us to have a good background understanding – especially if you suffer from allergies, heart conditions or if you suspect you could be pregnant. Along with your history, if you are visiting us for the first time, bring along your dental records so that we are made aware of any underlying dental concerns.
Based in Point Cook, Victoria, we offer a range of treatments that include:
General Dentistry
General Dentistry
Cosmetic Dentistry
Orthodontics
Sedation Dentistry
Restorative Dentistry
Being in the industry for decades, our team strives to deliver the best possible care for you and your family.
Embarrassed by chronic bad breath? Breath fresheners can be an effective short-term fix.
But if bad breath persists despite a regular brushing and flossing regimen, it’s best to see your dentist for an exam.
What Causes Bad Breath?
Bad breath, or halitosis, is an embarrassing problem that could signify a more serious medical issue, especially if you’re already practicing good oral hygiene.
The tongue harbors many bacteria, which are normally kept in check by saliva. However, an excess of bacteria can form plaque on your teeth and gums—producing plaque and volatile sulfur compounds that cause bad breath.
Risk factors for bad breath include:
Smoking or chewing tobacco
Poor oral hygiene
Dry mouth due to medications
Gingivitis or periodontal disease
Medications that interfere with saliva production (antidepressants and antihistamines are common offenders)
High-protein diet
Good Oral Health is Essential for Overall Health
Maintaining good oral health is essential for overall wellness.
Teeth and gums are vulnerable to decay, periodontal (gum) disease, tooth loss, and oral cancers. You can prevent many problems with regular visits to your dentist for exams, cleaning, and x-rays.
The American Dental Association recommends these steps for good oral health:
Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Use an ADA-approved soft-bristled brush. Floss once a day unless your dentist tells you otherwise.
If you have gingivitis or periodontal disease, floss at least once a day and brush after meals whenever possible.
Visit your dentist regularly—at least twice a year—for checkups and professional cleanings. You may need professional cleanings more often If you have problems with your gums or periodontal disease.
If you use tobacco products, stop. Smoking increases the risk of developing oral cancer and causes bad breath, stained teeth, and mouth sores.
If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation (no more than one drink per day). Excessive alcohol consumption can damage the tissues of the mouth.
Common Signs of Dental Problems
Many people don't realize that their oral health is an important factor in maintaining overall health. A healthy mouth can help prevent severe conditions such as heart disease, stroke, and cancer—not to mention periodontal disease that can lead to tooth loss.
Some signs of dental problems are obvious, such as bad breath or pain when chewing.
These are common signs of dental problems:
Bleeding gums. Bleeding may be a sign of gum disease caused by plaque. Left untreated, gum disease will worsen and may eventually lead to tooth loss and other problems.
Swollen or discolored gums. If you notice any changes in your gums, see your dentist. Changes in gum tissue may indicate a more serious problem.
Bad breath (halitosis). Bad breath can occur when your teeth decay or become infected. Halitosis can be eliminated with proper treatment for any dental problems.
Tooth pain or sensitivity. See your dentist if you’re experiencing persistent tooth sensitivity or toothaches.
Embarrassed By Bad Breath? Schedule an Appointment Today
Good oral hygiene can help prevent embarrassing bad breath, but you should see your dentist if the problem persists.
A dental cleaning removes plaque and reduces your chances of developing cavities and gum disease that can lead to bad breath. Routine dental exams are the best way to protect your smile.
If you're experiencing bad breath, mouth irritation, or notice a white spot at the back of your throat, you might have tonsil stones, also known as tonsilloliths, causing tonsil stones bad breath. But is it something to worry about? Not everyone develops tonsil stones and many people who have them aren't bothered by them, but if you are concerned about the white formations in your tonsils, here is everything you need to know about tonsil stones.
What Causes Tonsil Stones?
Tonsils play a crucial role in supporting your immune system by filtering out viruses and bacteria that can enter the body through the mouth. If you’re experiencing frequent tonsil infection, small pits in the tonsils might become filled with hard, white substances resembling tiny stones. Unfortunately, these stones can trap bacteria, leading to bad breath from tonsil stones and increasing the likelihood of recurring tonsillitis.
Despite their protective function, tonsils are coated with the same mucus that lines the inside of the mouth, featuring numerous pits and crypts. The presence of these crypts varies from person to person, and it is within these spaces that bits of food, bacteria, and other debris can become trapped, eventually forming tonsil stones. Regular inflammation or irritation in the tonsils heightens the risk of developing tonsil stones.
Here are some factors that can increase the risk of developing tonsil stones:
Larger crypts: Having naturally larger or deeper crypts in the tonsils makes it easier for debris to get trapped and stones to form
Frequent tonsillitis: Repeated inflammation of the tonsils can irritate the crypts and make them more likely to harbour debris.
Poor oral hygiene: Not brushing and flossing regularly can allow bacteria to build up in the mouth and throat, increasing the chance of it getting trapped in the tonsils.
Dry mouth: Saliva helps wash away debris from the tonsils. If you have a dry mouth, this natural cleaning process can be less effective.
Certain foods: For some people eating dairy products or other sticky foods can contribute to tonsil stones.
Do Tonsil Stones Cause Bad Breath?
Many people with tonsil stones are asymptomatic. According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research in 2013, tonsil stones are infrequent and generally quite small. Although many individuals with tonsil stones may not exhibit any symptoms of tonsil stones and might not even be aware of their presence, bad breath and other signs and symptoms can be connected to them.
Tonsil stones have the potential to contribute to chronic bad breath also known as halitosis. The foul-smelling compounds produced by the bacteria in tonsil stones can be challenging to eliminate. Regular oral hygiene practices alone may not be enough for persistent tonsil stones smell; a sign of the strong bacteria inside.
While maintaining good oral hygiene, such as brushing and flossing, can help minimise bacteria in the mouth, additional measures like gargling with warm salt water or using an antimicrobial mouthwash may be necessary to address the underlying cause of tonsil stones bad breath.
According to a review published in 2014 in Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, tonsil stones might be linked to about 3% of bad breath cases. The review also emphasised the need for further research to determine the extent to which tonsil stones and the tonsils play a role in causing bad breath.
How to Avoid Tonsil Stones?
Many people who keep getting tonsil stones want to get rid of them once and for all and you can reduce the chances of getting annoying tonsil deposits by developing good oral hygiene habits and making some lifestyle changes. These habits help control bacteria and stop the stones from forming.
Here are some tips:
Drink plenty of water: Staying hydrated helps maintain a moist mouth, preventing the accumulation of food debris in tonsil crypts.
Gargle with warm salt water regularly: This practice helps in loosening and removing food particles and bacteria from the tonsil crypts.
Practice good oral hygiene: Brushing twice daily and flossing once daily are essential to remove plaque and bacteria from teeth and gums, preventing migration to the tonsils.
Eat a balanced diet: A healthy diet low in dairy and high in fruits and vegetables reduces inflammation in the body, contributing to the prevention of tonsil stones.
Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol: Smoking and alcohol can dry out the mouth and irritate the tonsils, increasing susceptibility to tonsil stones.
Use a humidifier at night: Dry air irritates the tonsils, making them more prone to tonsil stones. A humidifier maintains moist air, preventing this irritation.
Get frequent dental cleanings: Regular dental cleanings remove plaque and bacteria, preventing their migration to the tonsils.
Following these tips can help reduce the risk of developing tonsil stones and keep your breath fresh.
How To Get Rid of Bad Breath From Tonsil Stones?
Tonsil stones can be annoying and embarrassing if they lead to bad breath. However, practising good oral hygiene, using at-home treatments, and seeking professional care when needed can help address the issue. Maintaining a clean, healthy mouth is key for both getting rid of current tonsil stones and preventing them from recurring. With some diligent effort, it is possible to keep tonsil stones and associated bad breath at bay.
Here are some tips to help get rid of tonsil stones bad breath:
Follow proper oral hygiene habits: Brush and floss your teeth to eliminate bacteria and plaque that contribute to bad breath.
Consider using an antibacterial mouthwash: An antibacterial mouthwash can help reduce bacteria in the mouth, combating bad breath associated with tonsil stones.
Seek professional dental cleanings: Regular cleanings by a dentist can remove built-up bacteria and debris, alleviating bad breath.
Explore tongue cleaning: Cleaning the tongue can eliminate bacteria that contribute to bad breath, especially when tonsil stones are present.
Address underlying causes: If bad breath persists, consider discussing with a healthcare professional to identify and treat any underlying issues.
If tonsil stones are causing significant discomfort or other problems, it is better to consult a dental professional. While less common, healthcare professionals may recommend a tonsillectomy—a surgical procedure for tonsil removal—as the most effective way to prevent tonsil stones and address related issues. Although tonsils contribute to the immune system, they can be removed if problematic, similar to the appendix.
