What Causes Bad Breath
Bad breath is most often the result of not consistently practising good oral care. Bacteria in plaque and tartar feed on food debris in your mouth, which produces unpleasant odours and can also lead to tooth decay and gum disease. Some foods, such as garlic and onions, contain compounds that are absorbed into the bloodstream and breathed out through the lungs, which causes temporary bad breath that brushing alone cannot remove. Gum disease is another common cause, which is why bad breath is often checked alongside the health of your gums.
Who Should Book a Visit
- Anyone with bad breath that does not go away after brushing and flossing.
- Patients with bleeding or tender gums as well as bad breath.
- People who have not had a professional cleaning in a long time.
- Anyone who wants advice on a better home-care routine.
How We Find the Cause and Treat It
- Exam: we review your habits and check your teeth, gums and tongue for plaque, tartar, decay or gum disease.
- Professional cleaning: removing plaque and tartar often makes a noticeable difference.
- Treating the source: if we find gum disease or a cavity, we explain how to treat it.
- Home-care plan: we show you how to brush, floss and care for your tongue and recommend what suits you.
- Follow-up: regular cleanings, about every six months or as recommended, help keep the problem from returning.
What You Can Do at Home
- Brush at least twice a day and floss daily to remove plaque and food debris.
- Clean your tongue gently as part of your routine.
- Use mouthwash, which can reach areas that a toothbrush has trouble with and helps control bacteria.
- Drink water through the day.
- If strong foods are the cause, limiting them can help.
Before Your Visit
- Note when the bad breath started and whether it is constant or comes and goes.
- Tell us about any bleeding gums, dry mouth or other symptoms.
- Bring your insurance information and a list of any medications.
- Brush as normal before you come. We need to see how your mouth looks day to day.
After Your Visit
- Follow the home-care plan we gave you.
- Expect your mouth to feel fresher and cleaner after a professional cleaning.
- Book your next cleaning about every six months, or as recommended.
- Call the clinic if bad breath continues, or if you notice swelling, fever, lasting pain or bleeding.
Cost, Insurance and Direct Billing
Our fees run 5% below the Alberta Dental Association Fee Guide, and we bill your insurance directly so you pay only your portion. Financing options and payment plans are available, and any recommended treatment comes with a written cost estimate before it begins.
Why Choose Allard Station Dental
- A judgment-free approach to a sensitive topic.
- Open seven days a week, including evenings on weekdays.
- Clear, practical advice you can use right away.
- Direct billing and online booking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my breath smell even after I brush?
Bacteria can build up on the tongue, between teeth and along the gum line, and brushing may not reach all these areas. Gum disease and tartar can also be a cause. A professional exam can help find the source.
Can bad breath be a sign of gum disease?
Yes, persistent bad breath can be linked to gum disease. Your dentist will check your gums to see whether this is a factor.
Will a dental cleaning get rid of bad breath?
A professional cleaning removes plaque and tartar and can greatly improve breath when buildup is the cause. If bad breath continues, your dentist will look for other causes.
Does mouthwash fix bad breath?
Mouthwash can help control bacteria and reach areas a toothbrush misses, but it works best along with brushing, flossing and regular cleanings, not instead of them.
Do certain foods cause bad breath?
Yes. Foods like garlic and onions can cause temporary bad breath that lasts after brushing. Avoiding them can help if you notice this pattern.
When should I see a dentist about bad breath?
Book a visit if bad breath lasts for more than a few days, comes with bleeding gums or tooth pain, or does not improve with better home care.