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The commonest causes are orodental disease due to poor oral hygiene and inappropriate diet.
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Exclude dental disease, malignancy (esp. nasopharyngeal carcinoma), pulmonary TB, hairy tongue, nasal and sinus infection
Consider drugs, e.g. isosorbide dinitrate, antidepressants
Avoid or limit onions, garlic, peppers, spicy salami and similar meats
Avoid or limit strong cheeses
Avoid sMurHand8_c08ive nips of alcohol
Brush teeth regularly during day—immediately after a meal
Rinse mouth out with water after meals
Avoid fasting for long periods during the day
Gargle with mouthwash regularly (e.g. Listerine, Cepacol Mint mouthwash, 0.2% aqueous chlorhexidine)
Use dental floss regularly to clean the teeth
Chew sugarless gum to moisten mouth
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Tip: Use an oil/water wash (e.g. equal volumes of aqu. Cepacol and olive oil), gargle a well-shaken mixture and spit out, qid.