Bad Breath Treatment

Why Does Bad Breath Happen?

Bad breath, or halitosis, usually starts in the mouth. Bacteria break down food particles and produce smelly compounds, and the problem grows when plaque, tartar or dryness give those bacteria room to thrive. Common causes include:

• Poor oral hygiene
• Gum disease
• Certain foods
• Dry mouth
• Tobacco use
• Some medical conditions

A few of these are easy to fix. Others need a dentist to find them.

Everyday Bad Breath or Chronic Halitosis?

A strong lunch or a skipped brushing can cause a short spell of bad breath that clears up on its own. Chronic bad breath is different. It sticks around after you brush, floss and rinse, and you or the people around you notice it day after day.

If that sounds familiar, it is worth a proper check rather than another pack of mints.

How We Find the Cause

We start by listening, then examining your teeth, gums and the rest of your mouth. We look for plaque and tartar buildup, signs of gum disease, dry mouth and anything else that could explain the smell. If your dentist suspects a cause outside the mouth, such as a medical condition, they will tell you so you can follow up with the right provider.

Treating Bad Breath at the Source

Your treatment depends on what the exam shows. For some patients, a thorough professional cleaning and new home habits make the difference. If gum disease is behind your breath, your care may include scaling and root planing, a deep cleaning that removes tartar and bacteria below the gumline, along with periodontal treatment. You also receive hygiene guidance suited to you, such as tongue and between-teeth cleaning.

Habits That Help Keep Your Breath Fresh

• Brush twice a day and floss daily
• Clean your tongue gently
• Drink water through the day if your mouth feels dry
• Avoid tobacco
• Keep up with regular cleanings

Our dental cleaning and checkups visits are a good way to keep tartar from building up.

Bad Breath Treatment Cost and Insurance

The cost of bad breath treatment depends on its cause, so we give you a detailed estimate before any work begins. We follow the ADA Fee Guide with transparent pricing.

We direct bill most insurance plans, file your claims for you and help you get the most from your benefits. CDCP is accepted, and we offer 0% financing and flexible payment options.

Why Choose a Dentist in NE Calgary for Bad Breath

Bad breath can feel awkward to talk about. Our team is honest, gentle and judgment-free, so you can ask plainly. Our clinic at 3565 20 Ave NE #110, in T1Y, welcomes patients from across Northeast Calgary, including Pineridge, Whitehorn, Temple and Abbeydale. We are open seven days a week, 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM, with same-day appointments available.

For the bigger picture, see our gum disease and bad breath page.

Frequently Asked Questions