Learn More About
Bad Breath

Bad breath can be caused by foods with strong odours like garlic and onions. But if you have persistent bad breath, it could be linked to an underlying medical condition such as gum disease, diabetes, or respiratory tract infection. While bad breath is usually not a sign of a serious medical problem, it can be a source of social embarrassment. In some cases, bad breath may even lead to anxiety or depression.

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Significantly Reduce Your Bad Breath and Enjoy Cleaner, Fresher Breath with our Treatments and Procedures.

We all want our breath to smell fresh, but sometimes bad breath can be hard to avoid. Bad breath, also known as halitosis, is a common problem that can be embarrassing and frustrating.
Many different things can cause bad breath. There are particular foods that can cause bad breath, such as garlic and onions. If you have a health condition like gum disease or diabetes, that can also lead to bad breath. And some habits, like smoking, can make your breath smell unpleasant.

AP Dental offers help for people who suffer from bad breath. We offer treatments and procedures to help improve oral health and eliminate bad breath. The dentists at AP Dental have years of experience diagnosing and managing bad breath, so you can feel confident that you’re getting high-quality care. If you suffer from bad breath, we can provide treatment options to help you get rid of it.

Common Causes of  Bad Breath 

  • One of the most common causes of bad breath is food. When you eat, food particles are left behind in your mouth, where they start to decompose and produce unpleasant odours.
  • Poor dental hygiene is another major cause of halitosis. If you don’t brush and floss regularly, food particles and bacteria can build up on your teeth and gums, causing bad breath. Poor dental hygiene also leads to gum disease, which can also cause bad breath. 
  • Dry mouth is another common cause of bad breath. Saliva helps to cleanse your mouth and remove odour-causing bacteria. If you don’t produce enough saliva, you may be more likely to develop bad breath.
  • Infections in your mouth can release foul-smelling gases or lead to the growth of bacteria.
  • Certain medications can cause dry mouth, while others can produce odorous gases.
  • Tobacco products are another common cause of bad breath. Cigarettes, cigars, pipe tobacco, and chewing tobacco contain nicotine and other chemicals that produce a strong, unpleasant odour. 

Dental Services that Can Address Bad Breath 

scale and clean

Scale and Clean

A scale and clean removes plaque and tartar build-up that can contribute to bad breath. It can also remove any food particles or debris between teeth, which can also cause bad breath.

gum disease

Gum Disease Treatment

In some cases, bad breath is caused by underlying gum disease. With proper treatment, such as scaling and root planning, you can get your gum disease and bad breath under control.

tooth extraction

Tooth Extraction

If you are struggling with bad breath caused by a severely decayed tooth, an extraction may be the most appropriate way to address the problem. Having the infected or damaged tooth removed can eliminate the source of the bad breath and improve your oral health.

dental fillings

Dental Fillings

Cavities are prone to plaque, bacteria, and stuck food particles, all of which could result in bad breath. Dental fillings seal voids so that food particles and bacteria cannot become trapped.

Frequently Asked Questions about Bad Breath 

The main symptom of bad breath is the presence of an unpleasant odour coming from the mouth. Additionally, you may notice:

  • there is a white coating on your tongue, particularly at the back,
  • an unpleasant metallic taste that is constantly sour and bitter,
  • a build-up of plaque around your teeth,
  • the need to constantly clear your throat due to thick saliva.
  • burning tongue and bad breath in the morning, and
  • mucous or post-nasal drip.
Here are a few simple tips for keeping your breath fresh and healthy:
  • Make sure you brush your teeth after eating. It will help remove food particles from your teeth and gums, which can lead to bad breath.
  • Take the time to clean your tongue. Your tongue can harbour bacteria that cause bad breath. Regularly brushing your tongue will help remove these bacteria and keep your breath smelling sweet. A tongue scraper may also be useful.
  • Floss at least once a day. Plaque build-up on your teeth can contribute to bad breath. Flossing helps remove plaque and keeps your teeth healthy.
  • Replace your toothbrush regularly. Old toothbrushes can harbour bacteria that cause bad breath. Be sure to replace your toothbrush every three to four months to keep your mouth fresh and clean.
  • Dental appliances should be cleaned regularly. If you wear dental appliances like dentures, clean them regularly. Bacteria can build up on these devices and lead to bad breath.
  • Keep your mouth moist. A dry mouth is a breeding ground for bacteria. To avoid dry mouth, drink plenty of water throughout the day and avoid medications that can cause dry mouth as a side effect.
  • Make dietary adjustments. Reduce sugary foods that increase bacteria growth, as well as foods such as onions and garlic that can cause bad breath. Instead, include parsley, yoghurt, and milk in your diet — all of which contain ingredients that help fight bad breath.
It depends on the cause of your bad breath. In most cases, good oral hygiene can significantly reduce bacteria that cause bad breath. If you have eaten foods with strong odours, such as garlic or onions, the odour will completely disappear once the foods have passed through your body. However, if an underlying condition like gum disease causes your bad breath, it will not go away on its own, and you will need to see a dentist for treatment.
If you don’t address bad breath, it can lead to social embarrassment and isolation. Additionally, it can be a sign of an underlying health condition, such as gum disease or infection. Without treatment, it could get worse. Therefore, it’s recommended to see a dentist or doctor if you are concerned about your breath. They will be able to help determine the cause of the problem and provide treatment options.
Mouthwash only provides temporary relief from bad breath. The alcohol in most mouthwashes can actually make your mouth feel drier, which can lead to even more bad breath. Additionally, many types of mouthwash only mask the odour of bad breath instead of eliminating it. So, while mouthwash can help you enjoy fresher breath in the short term, it’s not a long-term remedy to bad breath.

Get a Smile that Stands Out

At AP Dental, we are proud to offer a wide range of dental services to meet the needs of our patients. From professional cleanings and dental fillings to more complex procedures, we are here to help you maintain a brighter, healthier smile. Book your appointment today and see the difference our team can make.