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Breath

Bad breath, otherwise known as halitosis, can be a concern for many adults and children. The main causes of halitosis are:

• Poor dental hygiene - where food or bacteria are trapped in the mouth
• Infections in the mouth – from periodontal disease to a tooth abscess
• Dry mouth
• Diet and habits – garlic, onions, coffee, smoking, alcohol
• Illness – it can be a symptom of diabetes, kidney or liver disease

What you can do:

• Brush your teeth 2 -3 times a day
• Scrape your tongue
• Drink plenty of water
• Change your mouthwash – use alcohol free

If simple self-care techniques don't solve the problem, you may want to see your dentist or doctor to rule out a more serious condition that may be causing your bad breath.

See other preventative services:

Home Care Tips
Cleaning and Exams
X-Rays
Breath