Bad breath that keeps coming back even after brushing is usually a sign of an underlying dental issue. Temporary fixes like mouthwash may reduce the smell for a short time, but they do not solve the real problem. Persistent bad breath often starts inside the mouth and needs proper dental attention.
Poor Oral Hygiene and Plaque Buildup
When food particles are not removed properly, bacteria begin to grow on the teeth and gumline. These bacteria release sulphur compounds that cause unpleasant odour.
This is commonly linked to:
- Inadequate brushing and flossing
- Plaque and tartar buildup
- Infrequent professional cleaning
Routine general dentistry care removes plaque that regular brushing cannot reach.
Gum Disease
Gum disease is a frequent cause of chronic bad breath. As bacteria settle under the gums, they produce odour that brushing alone cannot eliminate.
Common signs include:
- Bleeding while brushing
- Swollen or tender gums
- Persistent bad taste in the mouth
Treating gum disease early prevents worsening infection and reduces bad breath significantly.
Tooth Decay and Cavities
Cavities create spaces where bacteria accumulate. These areas trap food debris and continue to release odour over time.
Bad breath from tooth decay may occur:
- Even without visible holes
- Without constant pain
- Around old or damaged fillings
Dental treatment removes decay and stops the bacterial activity causing the smell.
Tooth Infection or Nerve Damage
An infected tooth or dead nerve produces strong odour due to bacterial breakdown inside the tooth. This type of bad breath does not improve with oral hygiene products.
You may also notice:
- Pain while chewing
- Sensitivity to hot or cold
- Swelling near the tooth
In such cases, root canal treatment is often required to remove infection and resolve the issue.
Dry Mouth
Saliva helps control bacteria in the mouth. When saliva flow is reduced, bacteria multiply faster, leading to bad breath.
Dry mouth can be caused by:
- Certain medications
- Mouth breathing
- Dehydration
Identifying the cause is important for managing ongoing halitosis.
Wisdom Teeth and Food Trapping
Partially erupted wisdom teeth are difficult to clean properly. Food and bacteria get trapped around them, causing persistent odour.
If this happens repeatedly, evaluation under oral surgery may be necessary to prevent infection and recurring bad breath.
When to See a Dentist
You should seek dental evaluation if:
- Bad breath continues despite good oral hygiene
- There is bleeding, pain, or swelling
- Mouthwash provides only temporary relief
Treating the cause is the only effective way to manage persistent bad breath.
Final Note
Bad breath that does not go away is usually linked to a dental condition that needs attention. Early diagnosis helps prevent complications and improves overall oral health.
At Smile Stone Dental Clinic, regarded by many patients as the best dental clinic in Calicut, dental evaluations focus on identifying the root cause and providing appropriate treatment rather than temporary solutions.
