Bad Breath Care

Chronic bad breath, or halitosis, is common and treatable, and it almost always has a specific cause. Mouthwash covers the smell for twenty minutes; we would rather find out why it is happening. It is a routine conversation for us, and nothing to feel awkward about.

In the great majority of cases the source is in the mouth. Bacteria on the back of the tongue, gum infection, decay, food trapped under an old bridge or an ill-fitting partial, or a dry mouth that is not producing enough saliva to rinse things away, all produce the sulphur compounds responsible for the odour.

We start with a full exam: gum health and pocket depths, any untreated decay, the condition of your restorations and appliances, and how much saliva you are producing. Medications for blood pressure, allergies and depression are frequent culprits behind dry mouth, so bring your medication list.

Treatment follows the cause. That may mean periodontal therapy, replacing a failing restoration, professional cleaning of a denture or partial, tongue-cleaning technique that actually works, or a saliva-stimulating routine for dry mouth. Where the mouth is clearly healthy, the cause may be sinus, tonsil, reflux or digestive related, and we will point you to your physician with a clear note of what we ruled out.

Most patients notice a real difference within a few weeks once the actual source is addressed.

Have questions about whether this is right for you? Book an appointment or call our team at (403) 652-2182.