Gum Health
Is a Deep Cleaning Necessary? Scaling and Root Planing Explained
Told you need a deep cleaning? Why, what happens, and whether it hurts.
4 min readBy Hiral Desai, DDS, MDS, D. ABDSM
How to Get Rid of Bad Breath from Gum Disease
Bad breath that won't go away, even after brushing and mouthwash, is often a sign of gum disease. Here is why it happens and how to get rid of it for good.
The short answer
Bad breath from gum disease comes from bacteria living in pockets below the gum line, where a toothbrush can't reach. Mints and mouthwash only cover it up. Treating the gum disease itself, usually with a professional deep cleaning followed by a good daily routine, is what clears the odor for good.
Key takeaways
- Persistent bad breath is one of the most common signs of gum disease
- The odor comes from bacteria in gum pockets, not just on the teeth
- A deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) treats the cause
- Daily brushing, flossing and regular cleanings keep it from coming back
Bad breath, also called halitosis, can be embarrassing and hard to shake. One of the most common causes is gum disease (periodontal disease), an infection of the gums that can lead to serious problems if it isn't treated. Persistent bad breath is often one of the first things people notice.
This guide covers why gum disease causes bad breath, the treatments that work, and the daily habits that keep your breath fresh.
Why does gum disease cause bad breath?
Gum disease starts with plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth every day. If brushing and flossing don't remove it, plaque hardens into tartar and inflames the gums. This early stage is called gingivitis.
If gingivitis isn't treated, it can progress to periodontitis. The gums and bone start to pull away from the teeth and form pockets that collect food debris and bacteria. The bacteria in these pockets give off foul-smelling gases, which cause bad breath. Food particles that collect between the teeth and along the gum line make it worse.
Signs your bad breath may be gum disease
Spotting the signs early makes treatment simpler. Common signs include:
- Bad breath that won't go away: it comes back despite brushing and mouthwash.
- Red or swollen gums: tender, puffy gums are an early sign of gum disease.
- Bleeding gums: especially when you brush or floss. Read when bleeding gums need a dentist.
- Receding gums: gums pulling away from the teeth, making them look longer.
- Pus between the teeth and gums: a sign of infection.
- Loose teeth: caused by bone loss from advanced gum disease.
If you notice any of these, see a dentist soon. Treating gum disease early stops it from getting worse and clears up the bad breath.
Treatments that get rid of bad breath from gum disease
Getting rid of the odor means treating the gum disease behind it. Your dentist may recommend one or more of the following.
Professional deep cleaning (scaling and root planing)
Scaling removes plaque and tartar from the teeth and below the gum line. Root planing smooths the root surfaces so the gums can reattach to the teeth. This shrinks the pockets where odor-causing bacteria collect. A deep cleaning is not a one-time fix: because plaque keeps forming, regular periodontal cleanings help keep the gums and bone healthy over the long term. Learn more in Is a Deep Cleaning Necessary?
Laser bacterial reduction
We recommend laser bacterial reduction for every gum patient, along with deep cleanings and periodontal maintenance cleanings. The laser reduces the number of bacteria in the gum pockets and helps the cleaning work better. See our laser-assisted gum therapy page.
Antibacterial mouthwash
Your dentist may prescribe an antibacterial mouthwash to reduce bacteria and improve breath. A rinse reaches areas a toothbrush and floss can't. Some prescription rinses can cause brown staining with long-term use. If that happens, ask your dentist about switching to a different rinse.
Antibiotics
For advanced gum disease or a persistent infection, your dentist may prescribe antibiotics to control the bacteria and reduce gum inflammation.
A better daily routine
A consistent routine at home is key to managing gum disease and bad breath:
- Brushing: brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
- Flossing: clean between your teeth every day to remove food and plaque.
- Interdental cleaners: use interdental brushes, picks or a water flosser for hard-to-reach areas.
Lifestyle changes
Some habits make gum disease and bad breath worse. These changes help:
- Quit smoking: smoking weakens your immune system and makes it harder for gums to heal.
- Eat well: a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables and low in sugar supports gum health.
- Drink water: staying hydrated keeps saliva flowing, which rinses away food and bacteria.
Regular dental checkups
Regular exams and cleanings catch gum disease early, before it causes significant damage, so your dentist can recommend the right treatment.
Bad breath that won't go away? Book a gum check with Dr. Desai.
Book a consultationHow to prevent bad breath from gum disease
Prevention is always easier than treatment. To keep your gums healthy and your breath fresh:
- Brush and floss every day: brush at least twice a day and floss once a day.
- Use an antibacterial mouthwash: it helps reduce bacteria between brushings.
- Don't smoke: smoking raises your risk of gum disease.
- See your dentist regularly: checkups and cleanings catch early signs of gum disease.
- Limit sugar: cut back on sugary snacks and drinks.
Gum disease treatment in Tustin
Dr. Desai has postgraduate training in periodontics and treats gum disease for patients from Tustin, Irvine, City of Orange, Santa Ana and the rest of Orange County. Larwin Square Dentistry is at 604 E 1st St in the Larwin Square Shopping Center in Tustin. We're open Monday to Wednesday and Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM, and every Saturday from 8:00 AM to 2:30 PM. Call (714) 505-9462 or book online.
Questions patients ask
Can bad breath from gum disease be cured?
Yes, in most cases. Once the gum disease is treated, usually with a deep cleaning and a good home routine, the odor-causing bacteria are reduced and the bad breath improves. Regular cleanings keep it from coming back.
Why do I still have bad breath after brushing?
Brushing cleans the surfaces of your teeth, but it can't reach bacteria in gum pockets below the gum line. If bad breath comes back soon after brushing, gum disease is a common cause.
Does mouthwash cure bad breath from gum disease?
No. Mouthwash can freshen breath for a short time and an antibacterial rinse can help reduce bacteria, but it doesn't treat the gum disease that causes the odor.
How long does it take for bad breath to go away after a deep cleaning?
Many people notice fresher breath soon after their gums start to heal. How quickly depends on how advanced the gum disease was and how well you keep up with brushing, flossing and follow-up cleanings.
Get your breath back
If bad breath keeps coming back despite good brushing habits, a gum check is the best next step. Dr. Desai will find the cause and recommend a plan to get your gums healthy and your breath fresh again.
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This guide is general information, not a diagnosis. Book a visit for advice about your own teeth.