Halitosis (Bad Breath)
What is Halitosis?
What is Halitosis?
Halitosis—commonly known as bad breath—is a condition where unpleasant odours persist in the mouth, often caused by bacteria, gum disease, poor oral hygiene, or dry mouth. It can affect your confidence, social interactions, and overall wellbeing—but in most cases, it’s treatable with the right dental care.
At Genesis Dental in Canning Vale, our experienced team offers gentle, effective care to identify the cause of halitosis and restore a fresh, healthy smile.
Book now for a thorough assessment and personalised treatment plan.
Common Causes of Halitosis
Halitosis can be caused or worsened by several factors, including:
Poor oral hygiene and plaque buildup
Gum disease (periodontitis or gingivitis)
Tongue coating (bacteria and debris on the tongue surface)
- Mouth infections or decayed teeth
Smoking or tobacco use
High-protein or sugary diets
Ill-fitting dentures
Certain medications or health conditions (e.g. diabetes, acid reflux)
Symptoms of Halitosis
Halitosis can be more than just an inconvenience—it may indicate deeper oral health issues:
Persistent bad breath despite brushing
A sour or metallic taste in the mouth
Dry mouth or a sticky feeling
White coating on the tongue
Bleeding or swollen gums
Tooth decay or infection
Social embarrassment or anxiety
Our Treatments for Halitosis
Genesis Dental in Canning Vale offers targeted solutions to help manage and relieve the symptoms of halitosis.
Our treatments include general dental checkups, professional cleaning and polishing, tooth extractions for decayed teeth, and restorative options such as crowns and bridges. For patients with dry mouth or appliance-related issues, we also assess denture fit and oral hygiene practices. These options are designed to restore freshness, protect your oral health, and support long-term confidence in your smile.
Halitosis Relief at Home
Alongside professional care, you can take steps at home to manage bad breath:
Brush twice daily with toothpaste
Clean your tongue with a tongue scraper or soft brush
Floss daily to remove food debris between teeth
Rinse with an alcohol-free antibacterial mouthwash
Stay well-hydrated throughout the day
Avoid smoking and reduce alcohol
Remove and clean dentures or appliances daily
How to Prevent Bad Breath
To keep halitosis away in the long term:
Maintain consistent brushing and flossing habits
Schedule regular dental checkups every 6 months
Replace toothbrushes every 3 months
Avoid sugary snacks and heavily spiced foods
Discuss dry mouth with your dentist if it persists
Keep dental appliances clean and well-fitted
When to See a Dentist for Halitosis
It’s time to book a dental visit if you notice:
Persistent bad breath that doesn’t go away
A sour or unpleasant taste
Bleeding, red, or swollen gums
Loose teeth or gum recession
Pain, decay, or visible plaque buildup
You haven’t had a checkup in 6+ months
Prompt care can help you breathe easy and smile confidently again.
Associations
Our dentists are members of reputable dental associations, including the Australian Dental Association WA (ADAWA) and the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). We are also accredited by QIP, meaning our practice adheres to industry guidelines and regulations.
We accept all health funds, claimable on the spot for your convenience. We are preferred providers with HBF, HCF, CBHS and NIB, meaning you can maximise your rebate.
We also provide interest free payment plan options via The Tooth Market’s Fund My Dental. We also participate in government aided programs such as the Child Dental Benefits Scheme and provide top quality treatment for Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) card holders.
Meet Our Team
Dr. Serene Ong
Dentist
Dr. Ben Luu
Dentist
Dr. Ashleigh Furfaro
Dentist
Dr. Amanda Lau
Dentist
Kelly Jones
Dental Assistant
Samantha St Johnston
Dental Assistant
Dry Mouth FAQ's
Can halitosis be treated?
Yes. In most cases, professional cleaning and addressing underlying issues like gum disease or tooth decay can significantly reduce or eliminate bad breath.
Is halitosis a sign of a serious condition?
Sometimes. While often linked to oral hygiene, it can signal gum disease, infections, or systemic issues like diabetes or reflux.
Can children have halitosis?
Yes, especially if they have poor brushing habits or mouth breathing. A dental checkup can help identify the cause.
Does mouthwash cure bad breath?
Mouthwash offers short-term relief but won’t treat the underlying cause. Regular dental care is key.
Is dry mouth linked to bad breath?
Yes. Saliva helps cleanse the mouth. When it’s reduced, bacteria flourish, leading to halitosis.
Contact Us
Contact our caring dentists in Canning Vale today with any questions about dry mouth or to book your consultation to start your journey to a healthy smile.