What’s Causing Your Bad Breath? Common Causes & How Tooth Harmony Can Help
We’ve all had moments when our breath wasn’t exactly fresh—but for some people, bad breath is more than a temporary issue. It can be embarrassing, affect your confidence, and even hint at underlying dental or health problems.
At Tooth Harmony in Niagara Falls, we talk with patients every week who are struggling with bad breath. The good news? In most cases, it’s very treatable once we identify the root cause.
Here’s what you need to know about halitosis, why it happens, and how we can help you manage it.
What Causes Bad Breath?
There’s no single cause of bad breath. In fact, it’s usually a combination of factors. Some are related to oral hygiene, while others stem from health or lifestyle habits.
Here are the most common culprits:
1. Poor Oral Hygiene
When plaque builds up on your teeth, gums, and tongue, bacteria thrive—and they release foul-smelling compounds. If you’re not brushing and flossing regularly (or thoroughly), that’s often the main reason.
2. Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)
Saliva helps rinse away bacteria and food particles. When your mouth is dry—due to medications, dehydration, or mouth breathing—odour-causing bacteria stick around longer.
3. Gum Disease (Periodontitis)
Chronic bad breath is a common sign of gum disease. If you also notice bleeding, swollen gums, or loose teeth, it’s important to get checked.
4. Tongue Bacteria
The surface of your tongue can harbour a lot of odour-causing bacteria. If you’re not cleaning your tongue daily, this could be a key contributor.
5. Certain Foods & Beverages
Garlic, onions, coffee, and alcohol can all lead to temporary bad breath. While brushing helps, some compounds enter your bloodstream and affect breath until fully digested.
6. Smoking or Tobacco Use
Tobacco leaves a strong smell and dries out your mouth, increasing the risk of both bad breath and gum disease.
7. Health Conditions
Sometimes, halitosis is linked to digestive issues, sinus infections, diabetes, or other medical concerns. We can help determine if a referral is needed.
How We Diagnose the Cause at Tooth Harmony
If you visit us for bad breath concerns, we’ll begin with a thorough exam of your:
Teeth and gums
Tongue and soft tissues
Salivary flow
Existing dental work
We’ll also review your daily habits, diet, and medications. Once we know the likely source, we can recommend a custom plan to get your breath back on track.
Tips for Fresher Breath at Home
Here are some things you can start doing today to improve your breath:
Brush twice a day, including your tongue
Floss daily to remove food debris and bacteria between teeth
Use a mouth rinse (alcohol-free and dentist-approved)
Stay hydrated throughout the day
Chew sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva
Avoid skipping meals, which can worsen dry mouth
Quit smoking or vaping—or ask us about resources to help
If you wear dentures or retainers, clean them thoroughly every day.
Professional Solutions at Tooth Harmony
In some cases, brushing alone isn’t enough. At Tooth Harmony in Niagara Falls, we can offer:
Professional cleanings to remove tartar and bacteria
Deep cleanings (scaling and root planing) for gum disease
Tongue-cleaning guidance and tools
Treatment for dry mouth and saliva stimulation tips
Education on diet, hygiene, and oral products
We never judge—bad breath is a medical issue, not a personal failure. Our goal is to help you feel confident and informed about your oral health.
📍 Book Your Breath-Boosting Appointment in Niagara Falls
If you’re dealing with persistent bad breath, don’t wait—get the answers and care you need. At Tooth Harmony, we’re here to help you feel comfortable, refreshed, and confident in your smile again.
Visit or contact us here:
https://www.toothharmony.com/
905-354-9991
info@toothharmony.com
