Bad Breath & Halitosis Treatment

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About Bad Breath

If you’re one of the many people who suffer from bad breath, also known as halitosis, you know how embarrassing and frustrating it can be. Bad breath can be caused by several factors, including poor oral hygiene, certain foods, and even some medical conditions. The good news is that there are many things you can do to freshen your breath and prevent bad breath from happening in the first place. 

Why Use Optismile to Fix Your Halitosis

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Amazing Staff

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Done Correctly the First Time

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The Latest Dental Tech

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Usual & Customary Fees

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Keep It Natural

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A Central Location

What Clients Are Saying About OptiSmile

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Sarah D.
This is a phenomenal dentistry place . What they have done has changed my life. Staff are the best and extremely supportive and helpful.
Dr Clifford was very experienced and did the best job ever and very caring.
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Haashim M.
I’ve been coming to optismile for all my dental work, and I couldn’t be happier.

The team is professional, friendly, and genuinely cares about your comfort. The service is always top-notch, and I leave feeling well taken care of every time. Highly recommended!
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Simona S.
Always great servise. I used optismile for Invisalign treatment and now as my dentist. Very satisfied
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Emily B.
I got injection molded composite bonding and Dr. Clifford was the GOAT! I was visiting from overseas and on a tight schedule and he was more than accommodating. Something I really loved too was the fact that their practice has all the new technology for dentistry, so essentially everything you’re getting is really precise to your needs. Dr. Clifford is also a phenomenal human, world traveler, experience from all over the world, friendly and easy going, and really does care about his patients. I wish he was my regular dentist here in the US, I’d totally go to him. Thank you Dr. Clifford for showing me what the best should look like! 🙂
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Premier T.
Great Dentistry with attention to detail with genuine care for patients well being
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Barbara R.
Amazing team and perfect service. Highly recommended!
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Elvis E.
Dr Cara did an incredible job in the restoration of my dentition. I’ll recommend optismile anyday anytime.
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Andrew R.
OptiSmile, while on the pricier side, delivers an exceptional experience from start to finish. From the warm welcome at reception to the precision of their treatments, everything is handled with professionalism and care. They make use of the latest dental technology, and their staff are clearly highly trained and skilled.

We’re especially grateful that they took on my wife’s aligner treatment after she was unfortunately let down by her previous dentist in Johannesburg — a man named Tynan McArthur, who has since fled to Israel, leaving behind numerous unpaid debts and many patients in distress. OptiSmile stepped in when we needed real professionals, and we couldn’t be more thankful.

We now bring our whole family to their Cape Town practice, including our two children. Verona always goes out of her way to make us feel welcome and at ease, and Dr. Cara has been outstanding — highly professional, meticulous, and clearly passionate about her work.

Yes, it’s expensive, but with OptiSmile you’re paying for top-tier expertise, advanced technology, and a level of care that is truly world-class.
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Paul M
I cannot praise this clinic, their staff and particularly Dr Ruan Scheepers enough.
From the moment I walked through the door for an initial assessment till the time I walked out after month later after roughly 30 hours of dentistry, their professionalism, expertise, empathetic manner and flexibility was very evident.
If you need minor or major dental work done, go directly to these guys and ask for Dr Ruan Scheepers.
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Dakota R.
Very helpful and caring staff. Dr. Ruan was great at not only taking care of my teeth, but also educating me on everything going on. He actually helped me find out I had sleep apnea, which has been a game-changer for me. Would highly recommend Opti Smile
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Alex L.
This is probably the best dental clinic in the world. My partner has already had a new smile, which she is completely satisfied with. She inspired me to also have my teeth beautified by Doctor Cara. The result is absolutely brilliant. The whole team, from reception to the assistants, are extremely friendly and you feel that you are in very good hands here. The clinic has the most modern infrastructure.
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Paul B.
I am not great with dentists but Optismile is another level , extraordinarily professional, sensitive and a spectacular experience
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Cherie H.
Can’t recommend Optismile enough. Friendly kind and world class service.
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Marisa T.
The most advanced, efficient and considerate dentistry I have experienced. It is expensive, however I can understand why. Thank you Ruan and OptiSmile
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dena de R.
The very best dental practice I've been to. The whole team is super friendly, professional and proficient. Absolutely recommend!
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Herman du T.
Just love the team at Optismile! Dr Yudelman - works magic and is the nicest guy too. Can highly recommend 👍🏻
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Nicolas Alejandro Cuesta B.
I am usually anxious about going to the dentist, but I still decided to get a dental cleaning, a check-up, and a bleaching treatment. At first, I didn’t fully understand why everything was necessary for the bleaching, even though the receptionist explained it to me.

Now that I’ve had the treatment, I have to say—it was the best experience I’ve ever had. Not only is the clinic stunning, but the professionalism and the way they treat you are outstanding. The dentist was with me for the entire three-hour session; he never left me alone. First, he explained everything he was going to do, step by step. He used equipment and techniques I had never seen before, not even in Switzerland or Germany.

The check-up was not just a quick look at my teeth—it was incredibly thorough. They took pictures, X-rays, and close-up scans. They explained everything in detail, going through each tooth one by one, showing me what was good and what needed attention. Their level of professionalism is truly remarkable.

The staff is super friendly and prepared for everything. The whole experience was incredible—highly professional, beautifully executed, and absolutely worth every penny. I would do it again without hesitation. Five stars aren’t enough to describe how amazing this place is. I would recommend it to everyone—just outstanding!
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Jonathan Z.
Five-star service represents exceptional, consistently flawless customer service that anticipates needs, exceeds expectations, and leaves a lasting positive impression. It's about going above and beyond to ensure customers feel valued and satisfied.

Nothing is truer from the moment you walk through the doors and are greeted by the amazing front desk staff and made to feel so welcome. The team at OptiSmile is nothing but professional, patient and a team of incredible and warming people.

Dr Cara is so professional and guided me throughout the whole process and procedure. Dr Cara uncovered other areas where attention was needed and plans were put together that made me leave with a big smile.

Thank you OptiSmile for the experience and for being an exceptional team.
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Wendy Y.
Best dental practice I have ever been to. Most thorough dental analysis ever. Will n ver go anywhere else after the thorough check up and analysis. Highly recommend
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Nicholas B.
The most amazing dentist experience from start to finish! Everyone is so friendly and helpful and the equipment technology is super high tech. Thanks!!
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Dominique L.
10 star service at OptiSmile! Can highly recommend 😊 Dr Harris is the best and the after care service is just incredible. They really take extra care of their patients and go above and beyond to make sure all is in order, receptionists and dentists included!
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Marguerite J.
Wonderful practice with incredibly knowledgeable staff. First time ever feeling safe at the dentist's office.
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Janelle _
The best experience I’ve had a dentist so far! Dr Cara was very kind and did the most exceptional job on my crown; and Dr Ruan did an amazing job on my root canal. His gentle, warm nature really put me at
ease. The experience was pain free, very
professional and it’s clear both doctors are very knowledgeable and skilled. The cost was worth the level of expertise and exceptional service. The hours these doctors work are very long and yet they have always given 100% at every appointment.
Appreciate them both immensely!
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David O.
I've been going to Optismile for many years, and at this point would trust nobody else with my teeth! I've never been anything but extremely happy with work done, and beyond that the team obviously really cares about their customers happiness.

On the admin side booking or changes are always smooth and friendly.
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Alan van der V.
I have had a lot of significant dental work done by a variety of dentists in the United States, Mexico and at OptiSmile. OptiSmile is clearly superior in every respect. With costs as they are in the United States, it is only slightly more expensive to fly to Cape Town and it is well worth it.
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Joseph N.
I've been a patient at OptiSmile for four years, and I couldn't be happier with my experience! The staff is always friendly and welcoming, and I truly appreciate that the dentist is always on time – no long waits here! The advanced technology they use makes procedures quick and pain-free, which is a game-changer. Dr. Ruan Scheepers is top-notch – professional, thorough, and genuinely cares about his patients' comfort and well-being. I highly recommend OptiSmile to anyone looking for exceptional dental care!
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Bronwyn K.
My kids and I had a wonderful experience during a check-up and clean with Dr Kiera, Busi and Melany. Their professionalism, knowledge, warmth and friendliness put us completely at ease. I highly recommend this superb team.
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Paula B.
Absolutely excellent ! Would highly recommend
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John K.
Excellent dentist!
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Kemi M.
I don’t usually leave reviews, but I had an amazing experience with my 4-year-old son. From reception to the consultation room, the staff was absolutely wonderful.

Definitely won my 5 star rating. Dr Keira was lovely,Professional and pleasant experience.
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Shanna C.
Dr Keira is amazing! She made me feel so comfortable. The practice is also amazing, newest technologies and beautifully clean.
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Carol H.
I highly recommend OptiSmile. Dr. Yudelman is absolutely the BEST! Very detailed, caring, friendly and go extra mile to help, make the client happy, absolutely a pleasant experience.

The service received, from reception, communication to dentistry and everything in between, is fantastic. Very happy with my new smile 😁

Regards
Carolina
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Maruschka P.
I had an outstanding experience with OptiSmile! The personal service I received from Verona and Dr. Clifford was truly exceptional. From start to finish, my Invisalign journey was far better than I could have ever expected. Their knowledge and expertise ensured that I had complete confidence in the process—there was never a moment of uncertainty.

The team at OptiSmile is incredibly professional, well-informed, and genuinely cares about their patients. I’ve already recommended them to friends and family and will continue to do so. Thank you, Dr. Clifford, Verona, and the entire OptiSmile team, for making this such a smooth and positive experience!
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Danielle S.
Dr. Clifford is amazing! I came from the states to do injection molded bonding. I also had my teeth cleaned and whitened. The whole team is friendly, the office is beautiful, and the result is better than I could have imagined. Thank you so much to Dr. Clifford and team 🙌🏼 Highly highly recommend
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Bettie C.
Pure magic. That is my experience Dr Clifford Yudelman and Siwe his assistant saving a most important tooth today. Without one moment of fearing the usual anxiety a visit to a dentist meant in my young days. None of the "what-ifs" that could happen during a 2 hour long reparation of a cracked tooth with ancient silver filling from long ago. None of the fear of what could happen should I not be able to swallow and saliva could smother me in the upside down position in a dentists chair! Not once did I experience that anxiety with Siwe sucking all my fear away. And then watching the artist/computer geek, Dr Clifford creating a new ceramic tooth, as if creating a 3D sculpture in photoshop! Then sending his design via internet to a machine that carves my new ceramic tooth as I watch it happening!
Thank you Team Clifford/Siwe for what is not the regular "dentist-fear but an experience of wonder at modern technology performed by Magicians.
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anika K.
The team at optismile has changed the way I look at dentistry. I use to fear going to the dentist, they make you feel so comfortable and welcomed.
They are not just your regular “reactive” dentist, a full assessment prior to your consult ensures a proactive approach to your dental health.
All the expertise you need in one place.
I now smile with confidence thanks to them!!
Friendly professional service.
I cannot recommend them enough.
The only thing I regret is not getting to them earlier.
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Stephanie F.
I could not recommend Optismile enough! The reception staff are always so friendly & helpful, the practice environment is so clean & beautiful with amazing views, and the dental experts are, in my opinion, absolutely world class! I switched to Optismile when I wasn't happy with what was supposed to be the end result of my Invisalign treatment with another provider... Dr Smeyatsky was phenomenal, and he immediately understood why I wasn't yet satisfied & made a plan for me. The final result was exactly what I had always envisioned! Upon his advice, I also had some composite bonding done on two of my teeth after my treatment, which elevated my smile even further, while still looking natural & not giving that "overly done" look. Optismile has given me so much confidence in my smile. I'm so happy I chose this practice & every year without fail when I visit home from the UK, I go back for oral hygiene & a dental check-up to maintain the smile I now have. Every visit continues to be a delight!
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Melanie S.
Hallo zusammen ,
Ich war im Dezember in Kapstadt im Urlaub als ich dummerweise über Nacht heftige Zahnschmerzen bekam. Die Praxis in Seapoint wurde mir von Freunden empfohlen und ich habe sofort einen Termin bekommen. Das ganze Team hat sich super um mich gekümmert und Dr. Ruan ist ein super einfühlsamer Arzt der sich viel Zeit nimmt und alles genau mit mir besprochen hat.
Auch nach der Behandlung wurde sich noch des Öfteren per WhatsApp nach meinem Wohlbefinden informiert.
Ich kann die Praxis nur empfehlen !!!
Liebes OptiSmile Team : nochmal vielen vielen Dank für eure schnelle Hilfe. Macht weiter so . Ihr seid einfach super !!
Liebe Grüße aus Deutschland. Melanie
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Max W.
Best dentist's in the world, bar none. Trust me.
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Marysia A.
Cozy and friendly environment with superb service. Melany, the hygienist was extremely personable and very gentle. Probably the best cleaning I have ever had.
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Andreas L.
I have been at many tooth doctors around the globe but the services especially Invisalign is unique in terms of quality, price and the human factor. Thank you 🙏
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Laure P.
I met Dr Clifford with the dream of having a beautiful smile that I wouldn't be ashamed anymore, as well as fixing few issues. Very quickly, within the first appointment, he had my trust. Despite being scared of not looking like me anymore, he and his team made sure that I was looked after during the few weeks leading to the big day. Now, after working on more than 8 teeth, doing the bonding, I have so happy and can't stop smiling!!! He gave me back my confidence and I also feel more confident that the issues I had, are now dealt with. All without damaging or removing any of my teeth. I am very grateful and can't recommend them all enough!!!!!
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Jasmine H.
The team at Optismile is always so warm and welcoming. The receptionists are rock stars and are always on the ball when it comes to scheduling appointments. The dentists and their assistants are also so friendly and make me feel right at home when I arrive. I highly reccomend them, their services are 10/10!
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Breath So Bad It Could Wake The Dead

Halitosis can be embarrassing and, in some cases, may even cause anxiety. It’s no wonder store shelves overflow with gum, mints, mouthwashes and other products designed to fight bad breath. But many of these products are only temporary measures because they don’t address the cause of the problem. In many cases, you can improve your dental hygiene with consistent routines in looking after your teeth and gums. If simple self-care techniques don’t solve the problem, see your dentist to be sure a more serious condition isn’t causing your bad breath. 

Is Halitosis Impacting Your Life?

1. Do You Avoid Conversation Because of Your Bad Breath?

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No one likes to be in a situation where they feel like they have bad breath. You may have noticed that you have bad breath after eating certain foods or when you haven’t brushed your teeth in a while. Whatever the reason, it can be embarrassing and make you avoid conversation. 

2. Does Your Halitosis Impact Your Self-esteem?

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Halitosis, or bad breath, is a common problem that can significantly impact your self-esteem. Having bad breath in social situations can be embarrassing and make you feel less confident and attractive. 

3. Is Your Lousy Breath Causing Issues in Your Relationships?

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Halitosis can be a major turnoff for your romantic partner. Studies have shown that bad breath is one of the biggest factors in determining whether or not someone will be attracted to you. And it’s not just because it’s unpleasant to smell. When we encounter someone with bad breath, we unconsciously assume they are unhealthy and probably have poor hygiene habits. Bad breath can be a major obstacle to intimacy in a romantic relationship. It’s hard to kiss someone while holding your breath, and it’s even harder to cuddle when trying not to breathe in their direction. 

Halitosis and Gum Disease

Halitosis can be one of the early signs of gum disease, as this is also caused by a build-up of plaque bacteria along the gum line that may be responsible for bad breath. If it’s not removed, plaque can cause bleeding and swollen gums, the symptoms of gingivitis. Left untreated, this could lead to more serious gum disease. If you have any concerns about bleeding gums, book an appointment with OptiSmile immediately. 

Bad Breath & Halitosis FAQs

Take a look at our most common questions about Halitosis. If you have any further queries, be sure to ask.

Bad breath, also known as halitosis, can be caused by several factors. Poor oral hygiene is one of the most common causes, as it allows bacteria to build up on the teeth and tongue. This can lead to an unpleasant smell. Another common cause of bad breath is dry mouth, which allows bacteria to thrive. Smoking and certain foods can also contribute to bad breath. However, in some cases, bad breath may signify a more severe condition, such as gum disease or a sinus infection. Talk to your dentist if you are concerned about your breath. They will be able to identify the cause and recommend treatment. 

Anyone who has ever had a rotten tooth knows that the pain can be excruciating. But did you know that a rotten tooth can also cause bad breath? When a tooth decays, it creates a perfect environment for bacteria to grow. These bacteria produce sulfur compounds, which are responsible for bad breath. In addition, the decay itself can release an unpleasant odour. If you suspect you have a rotten tooth, you must see a dentist as soon as possible. Not only will they relieve your pain, but they will also be able to treat the underlying infection and help you get your breath back to normal. 

There are many home remedies for bad breath; one of the most popular is apple cider vinegar. Apple cider vinegar is believed to work by restoring the pH balance in the mouth, which can help kill odour-causing bacteria. It also contains acetic acid, which has antibacterial properties. To use apple cider vinegar for bad breath, mix one tablespoon with a cup of water and gargle before spitting it out. You can do this several times a day. Some people find that their bad breath improves after using apple cider vinegar for a few days. Do not use it for extended periods because vinegar is acetic acid and can cause sensitive teeth and dental erosion, where your teeth melt away over time. . If your bad breath is not helped by apple cider vinegar, it’s best to visit a dentist. 

Everyone knows that certain foods can cause bad breath. For instance, garlic and onions are notorious for lingering unpleasant odours in the mouth. However, other foods can also cause bad breath, even though they might not be as obvious. For example, spicy food can irritate the mouth and throat, leading to inflammation and increased bacteria. Likewise, sugary foods can promote the growth of bacteria, which can cause bad breath. Lastly, certain fish contain oils that can also contribute to bad breath. Avoid offending others with your breath by avoiding these foods altogether. However, if you eat them, brush your teeth afterwards to help remove any odours or chew some sugar-free gum with Xylitol. 

  1. First, try licking the inside of your wrist and smelling it. If it smells bad, then you probably have bad breath.
  2. Another way to check is to floss your teeth and then smell the floss. If it smells bad, then you likely have bad breath.
  3. Finally, try using a cotton swab to brush the top of your tongue. If the cotton swab smells bad after being brushed on your tongue, then you probably have bad breath.

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