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Bad Breath (Halitosis)
Bad Breath (Halitosis) (a bad odor from the mouth)
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Emergent Care - Have you identified one or more of the following symptoms?
| Yes |
No |
Seek Immediate Medical Attention!
These symptoms can be life-threatening. |
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| the bacteria from the build up of plaque on the teeth is a common cause of bad breath
plaque starts forming 4 minutes after eating
salivation is the mouth's natural ability to cleanse itself
it is important to eat regular meals and drink water in adequate amounts
brush your teeth in a circular motion and not back and forth
bad breath can be caused by gum disease, post nasal drip ,indigestion or chronically infected tonsils
some medication (antidepressants, narcotics) dry the mouth and cause bad breath |
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Urgent Care - Have you identified one or more of the following symptoms?
- bad breath plus sore, swollen or bleeding gums
- bad breath with fever, cough, sore throat or post nasal drip
- bad breath and a toothache,, contact your dentist
| Yes |
No |
Contact Your Health Care Provider. |
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Self-Management - You can help in the following ways:
- brush and floss teeth a minimum of 2 times a day, follow by thorough rinsing
- brush tongue a minimum of 1 time a day
- visit the dentist every 6 months for professional cleaning
- maintain a well balanced diet
- avoid smoking, alcohol, spicy foods, strong smelling foods (onions, garlic, fish)
- chew fresh parsley or peppermint leaves
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Go Back
Call Your Health Care Provider If: |
| You do not get better, new symptoms appear, you are concerned in any way or you have questions. |
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