What Is Halitosis?
Persistent bad breath, known medically as halitosis, can be embarrassing and may point to an underlying oral health issue. At Martindale Smiles, we help identify the root cause of your bad breath and provide effective, lasting treatment. Whether it comes from bacteria buildup, gum disease or other factors, our comprehensive approach helps you feel confident about your breath again.
Many people live with bad breath for years without knowing why. It is far more common than most people think, and it is very treatable once the cause is found.
Common Causes of Bad Breath
Bad breath can be caused by poor oral hygiene, gum disease, dry mouth, certain foods, tobacco use or underlying medical conditions. In most cases, the odor comes from bacteria on the tongue, between the teeth or in pockets around the gums.
Our dentists perform a thorough examination to pinpoint the specific cause and develop a targeted treatment plan.
- Bacteria on the tongue and between the teeth
- Gum disease and pockets around the teeth
- Dry mouth, which reduces the saliva that cleans the mouth
- Tobacco use
- Certain foods and drinks
- Underlying medical conditions
Effective Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the underlying cause. It may include a professional dental cleaning to remove bacteria and tartar, treatment of gum disease, recommendations for better oral hygiene techniques, care for dry mouth and tongue cleaning guidance.
In some cases, we may recommend antimicrobial rinses. If we suspect a medical condition outside the mouth, we may refer you to a physician for further care.
What to Expect at Your Visit
- 1Thorough oral examination. We look for the cause of your bad breath.
- 2Assessment of gum health and bacterial levels. We check for gum disease and other sources of odor.
- 3Professional cleaning if needed. We remove the bacteria and tartar that home care cannot reach.
- 4Personalized treatment and hygiene plan. You receive clear steps that fit your needs.
- 5Follow-up to monitor improvement. We check your progress and adjust your plan.
How to Manage Bad Breath at Home
Good habits support your treatment and help keep your breath fresh between visits.
- Brush twice a day and floss every day
- Gently clean your tongue, where most odor-causing bacteria live
- Drink water often to keep your mouth moist
- Avoid tobacco products
- Limit strong-smelling foods and sugary drinks
- Remember that mouthwash and mints only hide odor for a short time
Why Choose Martindale Smiles for Bad Breath Treatment
- Non-judgmental, compassionate care
- A thorough diagnostic approach
- Personalized treatment plans
- Experienced dental professionals
- A comfortable, private setting
- Open seven days a week, with same-day appointments available
- Direct insurance billing available
Related Treatments
- Periodontal treatment in Northeast Calgary: care for gum disease, a leading cause of bad breath.
- Dental cleaning and check-ups in Northeast Calgary: regular visits keep bacteria and tartar under control.
Cost of Bad Breath Treatment
The cost of bad breath treatment depends on the cause. If a professional cleaning or a simple home care plan is all you need, the cost is lower than if gum disease treatment is required. We tell you what to expect before we begin.
We follow the ADA Fee Guide and offer direct billing to insurance. Patients with the Canadian Dental Care Plan can find details on our CDCP page, and eligible First Nations and Inuit patients can learn more on our NIHB page. To receive a personalized quote, please contact our team.