Bad breath,
also called halitosis,
can sometimes accompany stress or anxiety. While many factors can cause bad breath, such as poor dental hygiene, gum disease, or respiratory illnesses, prolonged stress can aggravate
unhealthy oral conditions
to make your breath smell unpleasant.
Stress causes a variety of mental and physical health problems, such as reduced productivity, muscle tension, and unstable moods. In your mouth specifically, stress can reduce the production of saliva, creating a dry mouth.
Stress causes a variety of mental and physical health problems, such as reduced productivity, muscle tension, and unstable moods. In your mouth specifically, stress can reduce the production of saliva, creating a dry mouth.
Without
a healthy flow of saliva to wash away food
particles and prevent bacteria from becoming lodged between your teeth, bad breath can quickly result from accumulating debris and the resulting
sulfur production in the mouth.
In
addition to reducing saliva production, stress can also lead to higher levels
of stomach acid. Chronic acid production can create acid reflux, which is the backward flow of stomach contents into the
esophagus and lower throat. Both these effects of stress result in an
unpleasant oral odor that is evident when you speak or exhale.
Bad breath that is caused by stress can be most effectively treated by attending to the underlying cause. Stress can often be managed through support from loved ones, regular exercise, and relaxation techniques.
Bad breath that is caused by stress can be most effectively treated by attending to the underlying cause. Stress can often be managed through support from loved ones, regular exercise, and relaxation techniques.
Prolonged
or unmanageable stress should receive psychiatric treatment to determine the
causes of your stress and to promote better health. Drinking plenty of water each day is also important, as
dehydration further impairs saliva production and can worsen breath.
Additionally,
chewing gum and sucking on sugar-free
lozenges can increase saliva flow and provide an outlet for nervous tension,
thereby reducing the effects of stress-prompted bad breath.
Make
sure that you visit your dentist at least twice each year for regular cleanings
and exams, as he or she can help you design and maintain an effective daily oral-hygiene
routine.
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This article is based
on the book,” Bad Breath Free Forever” by James Williams. This special report
contains vital information that will enable you to take control of your life,
banish bad breath, save your sex life, career and personal relationships.
Never again will you
suffer the humiliation of bad breath. Get yourself cleaner, fresher breath and
a more kissable mouth. You will enjoy increased self-confidence and positive
effects on your self-esteem.