Bad Breath

Halitosis, the clinical term for bad breath, is a common problem affecting as many as 25% of the population globally. 

Halitosis can frequently be a symptom of other conditions from sinus issues, to stomach problems to severe gum disease.

Bad breath is a concern because it is unpleasant and can have negative social consequences. It should be evaluated because it can be an early warning sign of other developing problems. 

Treatment includes a thorough dental examination in combination with a medical history. Your dentist will then move through an elimination process to diagnose the cause and treat it accordingly

If dental in origin, a referral to the hygienist to clean to treat the gum infection in combination with recommendations of modified home care protocols will treat the halitosis.

If Sinus in nature, our advanced OPG x-ray systems can investigate sinus infections and treat them accordingly or refer you to an ENT specialist for their management.

If from the stomach, referral to a Gastroenterologist can be organized to address the issue and prevent its ongoing problems.

That said, occasional bad breath associated with eating garlic-heavy foods or drinking coffee is no cause for alarm.