We specialize in diagnosing and treating chronic bad breath (halitosis) in Berkeley, CA and the East Bay. If you’ve tried brushing, rinsing, and mouthwash without lasting results, you may be experiencing deeper underlying causes. Our expert team offers personalized care, advanced diagnostics, and a proven treatment pathway to help you breathe easy and smile with confidence again.

30+

experience in medical services

Bad Breath

What Is Chronic Halitosis (Bad Breath)?

Halitosis refers to persistent bad breath that isn’t resolved by standard hygiene practices. While everyone may experience “morning breath” or temporary odours after food, chronic halitosis signals that there’s an underlying cause. According to the Cleveland Clinic, when bad breath doesn’t improve with brushing or mouthwash, a professional evaluation is recommended.

Most cases (up to 85%) originate within the mouth—from tongue coating, gum disease, or trapped bacteria—while a smaller portion may stem from nasal, throat or systemic issues.

99%

success rate

19000+

happy patients

Why ?

Common Causes & Risk Factors

Why Does Bad Breath Happen?

The underlying causes of halitosis are varied, and understanding them is the first step to effective treatment.
Key contributors include:

When plaque and food particles accumulate on your teeth or tongue, odor-producing bacteria thrive. Regular brushing, flossing, and tongue cleaning are essential to remove this buildup and prevent chronic bad breath.

Inflamed gums and deep pockets around the teeth trap bacteria that release foul-smelling sulfur compounds. Treating gum disease is one of the most effective ways to eliminate persistent halitosis.

Saliva helps cleanse your mouth and neutralize acids. Reduced saliva flow — caused by certain medications, mouth breathing, or dehydration — allows odor-causing bacteria to multiply. Managing dry mouth is key to long-term freshness.

Strong-smelling foods like garlic, onions, and coffee, along with tobacco and alcohol use, can temporarily or chronically worsen bad breath. Limiting these triggers supports a cleaner, more balanced oral environment.

In some cases, bad breath originates beyond the mouth. Sinus infections, tonsil stones, acid reflux, diabetes, and liver or kidney issues can contribute to chronic odor. Identifying these systemic causes ensures proper and lasting treatment.

Age, tobacco use, certain medications, dentures or orthodontic appliances, and untreated systemic diseases can all increase the likelihood of developing halitosis. A thorough dental and medical assessment helps reveal these contributing factors early.

Our Evaluation & Treatment Process

Your Personalized Halitosis Treatment Path

1

Comprehensive Assessment

Includes oral exam, tongue and gum check, review of dental history, appliances, lifestyle, and medical causes.
2

Professional Cleaning & Tongue Debridement

Removing bacterial biofilm on tongue, plaque under gums, and faulty dental restorations.
3

Targeted Treatments

Addressing gum disease, restoring damaged teeth, managing dry mouth, and correcting dental work that contributes to odor.
4

Lifestyle & Hygiene Coaching

Customised advice on brushing, flossing, tongue cleaning, diet, and habits (e.g., tobacco cessation).
5

Follow-up & Maintenance

Ongoing review to monitor results, reinforce hygiene and ensure lasting improvement.

why choose us

Excellence results you can trust

Accurate diagnosis of dental diseases ensures effective treatment plans, helping to maintain oral health and prevent further complications.

Experienced Dental Professionals.

Every visit is focused on your comfort and confidence, with gentle treatment methods and clear communication every step of the way.

Comprehensive Dental & Breath Solutions

From gum therapy to dry mouth management, we provide complete dental care for lasting oral freshness and health.

Trusted by Berkeley Patients

Our compassionate approach and proven results have made us a leading choice for halitosis treatment in the Berkeley community.

FAQs

Everything you need to know about dental care

Find quick answers to common questions about our dental services, procedures, and patient care in our FAQ section.

We always take care of your smile

24/7 Emergency

+1 510-848-0114

Many patients notice significant improvement within a few weeks after professional treatment and improved oral hygiene habits. Consistent care and follow-up visits help maintain fresh breath long-term.

No. Mouthwash can only mask odor temporarily. Lasting results require identifying and treating the root cause of halitosis, such as gum disease, dry mouth, or bacterial buildup.

In some cases, yes. If oral causes are ruled out, halitosis may be linked to sinus infections, acid reflux, diabetes, or other systemic conditions. A proper dental and medical evaluation can determine the cause.

Dentures, retainers, or aligners can trap bacteria and food particles that cause odor. Regular cleaning and professional checkups are essential to keeping your mouth and appliances fresh.

Absolutely. With accurate diagnosis, proper oral care, and targeted treatment, chronic halitosis can be effectively managed or completely eliminated.

Book Your Appointment

Book your dental visit online appointment

Ready to take the next step towards a healthier smile? Use our easy online booking system to schedule your dental appointment. Simply select a convenient date and time, provide some basic information, and we'll handle the rest.

Working Hours

  • Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 7am - 4pm
  • Wednesday 10am - 7pm
  • Friday, Saturday, Sunday Closed
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We always take care of your smile

24/7 Emergency

+1 510-848-0114

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