Bad Breath? Here’s What Might Be Causing It
December 18, 2025
By Williamstown Road Dental Surgery
We’ve all experienced bad breath at some point—whether it’s the dreaded “morning breath” or an unpleasant odour after a meal. But for some people, bad breath (also known as halitosis) can become a persistent problem. At Williamstown Road Dental Surgery, we often get asked: “Why do I have bad breath even though I brush every day?”
Let’s explore the common causes behind bad breath, when it might signal something more serious, and how you can treat it effectively.
What is Bad Breath?
Bad breath occurs when bacteria in the mouth break down food particles and produce sulphur-containing compounds. These compounds are what create the unpleasant odour Periodic bad breath is natural, but persistent halitosis could be a sign of more serious dental or medical problems.
Common Causes of Bad Breath
1. Poor Oral Hygiene
Food particles might stay in the mouth if brushing and flossing are not done on a regular basis. This promotes plaque build-up and bacterial growth on the teeth, gums, and tongue—all of which can cause bad breath.
Dentist Tip:To lessen bacteria, brush and floss twice a day and carefully wipe your tongue.
2. Gum Disease
Chronic foul breath could be a precursor to periodontitis or gingivitis. These gum infections result from plaque build-up and lead to inflammation, bleeding, and odour-producing bacteria in the gum pockets.
If you notice bleeding gums or loose teeth, visit our Williamstown dental clinic for an assessment
3. Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)
Saliva is crucial for neutralising acids and cleaning away food particles. Bad breath is caused by germs that thrive in a dry mouth, which is a lack of saliva.
Causes of dry mouth include:
- Dehydration
- Smoking
- Certain medications
- Mouth breathing during sleep
Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol-based mouthwashes, which can worsen dryness
4. Diet and Food Choices
Strong-smelling foods like garlic, onions, coffee, and spices can linger in the mouth and bloodstream, releasing odours during exhalation.
Fun fact:The compounds in garlic can stay in your system for up to 24 hours!
5. Smoking and Tobacco Use
In addition to producing foul breath, tobacco also discolours teeth, lessens flavour, irritates gums, and raises the risk of oral cancer. Smoking dries the mouth and promotes gum disease, 0both major causes of halitosis.
6. Dental Infections or Cavities
Untreated tooth decay, abscesses, or infected gums can emit unpleasant odours. If bad breath is accompanied by pain or swelling, it’s important to see a dentist immediately.
7. Tonsil Stones (Tonsilloliths)
Tonsil stones are tiny, white or yellowish deposits that develop in the tonsil fissures. They are composed of bacteria and hardened debris, and they have an unpleasant odour.
8. Medical Conditions
Sometimes, bad breath is linked to underlying health issues like:
- Sinus infections
- Acid reflux (GERD)
- Diabetes
- Kidney or liver disease
If your dentist finds no oral cause for your halitosis, they may refer you to your GP for further investigation.
When Is Bad Breath a Problem?y
If you experience persistent bad breath despite good oral hygiene, it’s time to see a dentist. Chronic halitosis is not just embarrassing—it could be a sign of a bigger issue that needs professional care.
How to Prevent and Treat Bad Breath
At Williamstown Road Dental Surgery, we recommend the following steps to keep your breath fresh and your mouth healthy:
Brush Twice Daily
Use a fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush. Don’t forget to brush your tongue, where bacteria often hide.
Floss Daily
By removing food particles from in between teeth that a toothbrush cannot reach, flossing helps to reduce the accumulation of bacteria and plaque.
Rinse with Mouthwash
Use alcohol-free antibacterial mouthwash to kill bacteria and freshen breath. Look for ingredients like chlorhexidine or cetylpyridinium chloride.
Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water to help maintain saliva production and flush out food particles.
Chew Sugar-Free Gum
Chewing sugar-free gum can help stimulate saliva flow and reduce dry mouth-related bad breath.
Regular Dental Check-Ups
Visit our Williamstown dental clinic every 6 months for a professional dental cleaning and examination. We’ll identify and treat any potential causes of bad breath early.
How We Can Help at Williamstown Road Dental Surgery
As your trusted local dentist in Williamstown, our team is here to help you get to the root cause of your bad breath. Whether it’s gum disease, tooth decay, or dry mouth, we offer personalised solutions that restore your oral health—and your confidence.
We provide:
- Professional dental cleaning
- Gum disease treatment
- Oral hygiene advice
- Custom mouthwash or dry mouth solutions
Book Your Appointment Today
If you’re tired of struggling with bad breath, let the friendly team at Williamstown Road Dental Surgery help. We’re committed to providing expert dental care in a comfortable and welcoming environment.
Call us or book online for a consultation today and take the first step toward fresher breath and a healthier smile.
