Ask the Dentist: How to get rid of bad breath?

 

Bad breath, also known as halitosis, is something almost everyone experiences at some point. It can be embarrassing and affect your confidence in social and professional situations.

Common Causes of Bad Breath

Understanding the root of the problem is the first step. Bad breath can be caused by:

• Poor oral hygiene – leftover food particles and bacteria cause unpleasant odours.
• Dry mouth – saliva helps wash away bacteria; a lack of it leads to odour.
• Food & drinks – onions, garlic, coffee, and alcohol can linger.
• Smoking – not only causes bad breath but also increases oral health risks.
• Medical conditions – gum disease, tooth decay, sinus infections, acid reflux, or other illnesses.

Tips to Get Rid of Bad Breath

1. Brush and floss regularly: Brush your teeth morning and night with fluoride toothpaste, and floss
2. daily. Remember to clean your tongue too, since it often harbours bacteria that cause bad breath.
3. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day. A hydrated mouth produces more saliva, which naturally helps clean away bacteria.
4. Freshen up between meals: Sugar-free gum or mints can stimulate saliva and mask odour.
5. Watch what you eat and drink: Limit foods known to cause odour (like garlic and onions) before important events. Reduce alcohol and coffee intake, both of which dry out the mouth.
6. Quit smoking: Tobacco causes lasting odours in both the mouth and windpipe. Quitting benefits not only your breath but also your overall health.
7. Use mouthwash (the right way): Using an antibacterial mouthwash can help reduce bacteria and freshen your breath, but it should never replace brushing and flossing.
8. Visit your dentist regularly: Persistent bad breath can be a sign of gum disease, cavities, or other
9. conditions. Routine dental visits allow early detection and treatment of underlying issues.

When to see a dentist

Bad breath that doesn’t improve with oral care may be linked to a deeper health problem such as gum diseases or cavities. Consult a dentist if you notice persistent odour, swollen or bleeding gums. With consistent oral hygiene and routine dental visits, you can enjoy a healthier mouth and fresher breath.

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Dr Tan Kian Meng is a Dental Specialist in Prosthodontics with Specialist Dental Group®. He is also a Clinical Lecturer at the National University of Singapore and Diplomate with the American Board of Prosthodontics. He was formerly a Consultant at Singapore’s Khoo Teck Puat Hospital and Fellow of Maxillofacial Prosthetics and Oncologic Dentistry Fellowship at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. Dr Tan has special interest in prosthetic and implant restorative dentistry. http://www.specialistdentalgroup.com | (65) 6733 7883

Find Your Lane with the CIS Huskies Swim Team

 Every child’s journey in the pool looks different, and at the Canadian International School (CIS): there’s a lane for everyone. Swimming is a core sport at CIS and the Huskies Swim Team offers one of Singapore’s most comprehensive school swimming programmes, supported by experienced coaches and a community that feels like family.

A 3-level path from Beginner to Elite

Beginners as young as six start in the Learn to Swim programme, where confidence, safety, and strong foundations come first. From there, athletes progress to the pre-competitive squad, mastering advanced stroke techniques and building stamina as they prepare for the Huskies Swim Team.

With over 250 weekly training slots before and after school, and on weekends, parents value the flexibility as much as the structure and facilities. Some swimmers balance two sessions a week alongside other activities, while others commit to six or seven, training like professional athletes for national-level success. At the performance level, the school also offers strength and conditioning gym sessions, nutrition guidance and recovery support including ice baths!

Celebrating success in the pool

Huskies consistently shine at inter-school competitions, swim meets and international championships. At the recent SJI International U12 meet, CIS swimmers brought home 20 gold, 9 silver, and 15 bronze medals. Some take their journey to the very top, like Paris 2024 Olympian Lanihei C. and five-time Singapore National Age Group champion Ivan M. The school rewards hard work by awarding scholarships. This gives top athletes the opportunity to accelerate their skills and compete at the highest levels.

A community like no other

“As a parent to 3 CIS swimmers, the Huskies are not just another sports team, they are our family. Coach Helen and her team are always there to support all our children, and they have worked tirelessly to build a kind, supportive and inspiring swim community within the school.” – Melessa Tan (CIS parent since 2016)

Learn more about CIS at an Open House today - register here to secure your spot.

Opening Global Doors: CIS Students Reach Top Universities

At the Canadian International School Singapore (CIS), opening doors to top global universities isn’t just a goal, it’s part of who we are. With a future-focused curriculum, dedicated teachers, and a supportive community, we equip our students to thrive beyond the classroom and stand out. Over the years, CIS graduates have been accepted to more than 500 universities worldwide, including world-renowned institutions such as Oxford, Cambridge, and Stanford.

The CIS success continues with the Class of 2025 gaining acceptances to leading universities including Imperial College London, Columbia University, Cornell University, Berklee College of Music, University College London, The New School Parsons, The University of Hong Kong, and the University of Toronto.

These accomplishments are a testament to our students' hard work and dedication, but also to the strength of CIS’s academic programme and our passionate educators that champion every student’s unique journey. Whether they are pursuing engineering, the arts, or the sciences, CIS students are equipped with the skills, mindset, and resilience to succeed globally.

Hear from the graduating Class of 2025

	“In my 13 years at CIS, I have received immeasurable support in my academic endeavours. With dedicated teachers and excellent learning facilities, I secured a predicted perfect grade of 45.”  — Nathaniel D., accepted into Imperial College London.
	“CIS has taught me the power of initiative and prepared me to boldly embrace challenges with confidence and enthusiasm.”  — Luke G., accepted into St. Andrews and University College London
	“I've met lifelong friends and mentors who have shaped my educational journey. CIS has prepared me to take on the world with an open mind and a fresh perspective.” — Lavanya L., accepted into Cornell University.

Hear from CIS Alumni

	“CIS equipped me with the life skills and confidence to turn my dreams into reality. The diverse and supportive community, some of the most inspiring people I’ve ever met, helped bring me closer to achieving my lifelong goal.—  Cindy T., Stanford University
	“CIS broadened my musical horizons and helped me master the violin, all while giving me the opportunity to explore the piano, viola, guitar, and drums.”  — Haotian W., Royal Academy of Music
	“CIS not only enabled me to pursue my passions but taught me to be open-minded and expansive in my thinking.” — Emilee L., University of Cambridge.

Discover how CIS can set your child on the path to success. Join our upcoming Open House.

CIS. Proud to be Huskies.

Ask the Dentist: Why are dental X-rays necessary?

 

You may have been surprised when your dentist recommends an X-ray during a routine check-up, especially if you only came in for a cleaning. While it might seem unexpected, dental X-rays are essential for spotting hidden issues that can’t be seen during a visual exam. Modern digital X-rays use very low levels of radiation, far less than traditional film-based methods, and are safe even for children and pregnant women.

What do dental X-rays show? Dental X-rays (radiographs) allow dentists to examine areas beneath the gums, between teeth, and within the jawbone.

They can reveal:

• Cavities between teeth

• Signs of gum disease

• Infections or abscesses

• Bone loss in the jaw

• Buried or impacted teeth

• Cysts, tumors or other abnormalities

For children and teens, X-rays also help monitor tooth and jaw development, detecting potential issues like crowding or misalignment early — often before symptoms show up.

Types of dental X-rays: Common X-ray types include:

• Panoramic: Shows the entire mouth in one image.

• Periapical: Focuses on one or two teeth from root to crown.

• Bitewing: Captures upper and lower back teeth, helpful for spotting decay between teeth.

• Cephalometric: Side profile of the head, often used in orthodontic planning.

• Cone Beam CT: Produces 3D images for complex procedures like dental implants or jaw surgery.

How Often Should I Get an X-ray? 

Ultimately, the need for dental X-rays depends on your individual oral health. Your dentist may recommend one during your initial visit or when symptoms like a toothache or swelling occur.

 DrTan Kian Meng is a Dental Specialist in Prosthodontics with Specialist Dental Group®. He is also a Clinical Lecturer at the National University of Singapore and Diplomate with the American Board of Prosthodontics. He was formerly a Consultant at Singapore’s Khoo Teck Puat Hospital and Fellow of Maxillofacial Prosthetics and Oncologic Dentistry Fellowship at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. Dr Tan has special interest in prosthetic and implant restorative dentistry.  

http://www.specialistdentalgroup.com | (65) 6733 7883