Yes, regular dental cleanings could help lower and prevent bad breath.
Halitosis, or bad breath, is often caused by bacteria, plaque, and food particles in your mouth.
Professional treatment like dental cleanings & exams in Prince Albert eliminates bad breath causes and keeps your breath fresher longer.
Why Dental Cleanings Are Key for Fresh Breath
Your hygienist removes hardened (tartar) and soft plaque during dental cleanings that brushing and flossing do not reach. Plaque is made of bacteria that create sulphur compounds, the main source of bad breath.
Dental cleanings make your mouth cleaner and healthier.
When You Should See a Dentist Near You
If you have bad breath that does not go away through brushing, flossing, or rinsing, it may indicate:
- Gum disease (periodontitis)
- Cavities or tooth decay
- Bacteria trapped on the tongue
- Infections in the mouth or throat
A dentist near you can examine your teeth, gums, and tongue during the cleaning appointment to find out what is causing your concern and prescribe the correct treatment.
How Bad Breath Treatment Works
A bad breath treatment at the dental office goes beyond surface cleaning. Your dentist or hygienist may:
- Clean below the gumline to remove bacteria
- Polish teeth to prevent new plaque buildup
- Recommend an antibacterial mouth rinse
- Teach proper tongue-cleaning techniques
They may also suggest further care if gum disease, cavities, or dry mouth (xerostomia) are contributing to the odour.
What are the Oral Hygiene Tips to Keep Breath Fresh?
After a dental cleaning, maintaining fresh breath is an everyday routine, so here are some steps you can take towards better oral care.
- Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
- Floss daily and reach those hard-to-reach spots
- Use a tongue scraper or a soft-bristle toothbrush to clean your tongue
- Drink water often to prevent dry mouth
- Limit smelly foods like garlic and onion
Follow these steps, and limit the bacteria that create unpleasant smells.
Why Professional Teeth Cleaning is More Effective
Home care is important, but professional teeth cleaning is more effective than anything. Hygienists use special tools to
- Get rid of tartar that brushing cannot remove
- Clean below the gums where bacteria hide
- Smooth the tooth surfaces to make it difficult for plaque to stick
This level of cleaning helps to prevent gum disease, cavities, and the bacteria that are related to bad breath.
Bottom Line
Bad breath can feel frustrating, but it is also a warning sign for possible oral health problems. Regular cleanings do not freshen your breath, but they also protect your teeth and gums from disease.
Prairie Pines Dental Centre provides gentle, thorough cleanings to help you enjoy fresh breath and a healthy smile. Book your visit and let us take the first step to a confident smile together.
FAQs
How often should I get dental cleanings to prevent bad breath?
Most people should have a cleaning every 6 months. If you have gum disease or frequent bad breath, your dentist may recommend more frequent visits.
Can bad breath mean I have gum disease?
Yes, gum disease is a common cause of bad breath because bacteria collect under the gums and produce strong odours.
Does tongue cleaning help with bad breath?
Yes, many bacteria that cause bad breath live on the surface of the tongue. Cleaning it daily helps reduce odour.
Will professional cleaning get rid of bad breath permanently?
It can remove the current cause, but if it doesn’t maintain good oral hygiene at home, bad breath can return.
What if bad breath doesn’t go away after a cleaning?
If your bad breath persists, the cause may be medical, including sinus infections, acid reflux or similar conditions and should be pursued with your dentist for the next steps.