Dental Conditions
Persistent bad breath
More than a social concern. Halitosis that persists despite good oral hygiene usually signals an underlying dental condition that needs attention.
What actually causes it
Occasional bad breath is normal and usually dietary. Chronic halitosis that persists despite regular brushing typically has a specific, treatable cause.
The most common culprit is bacterial buildup — on the tongue, along the gumline, and inside periodontal pockets. As those bacteria break down food particles and dead cells, they produce volatile sulfur compounds, which are the source of the characteristic odour.
The usual causes
Gum Disease
The single most common cause. Periodontal pockets are anaerobic environments that produce sulfur compounds continuously, and no amount of brushing the tooth surfaces reaches them.
Untreated Cavities
Decay creates spaces that trap food and harbour bacteria in places a toothbrush cannot clean.
Poorly Fitting Dental Work
Overhanging fillings, ill-fitting crowns, and bridges that cannot be cleaned underneath all create bacterial reservoirs.
Dry Mouth
Saliva clears bacteria continuously. Reduced flow — from medication, mouth breathing, or medical conditions — removes that defence.
Tongue Coating
The rough surface at the back of the tongue harbours a large share of the bacteria responsible. Cleaning it is often one of the most effective steps you can take.
How we approach it
The first step is finding the cause rather than masking it — which means a periodontal assessment, checking for decay, and reviewing existing dental work and your medications.
Mouthwash alone treats the symptom for an hour or two. Treating the periodontal pockets, restoring the leaking filling, or addressing the dry mouth treats the problem.
Other conditions we treat
Concerned about your symptoms?
Book an assessment. This is usually straightforward to resolve once the cause is identified. Call (905) 479-7777.