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Bad Breath Specialists | Cure Halitosis in Escondido, CA
We help eliminate bad breath
Smelly breath, smelly breath — it’s not your fault!
Did you know that suffering from bad breath has a medical name? It’s called “halitosis” and it affects almost 1 in 3 people. No, bad breath itself won’t make you sick, but it can be a sign of more harmful dental health issues. And it can make you feel self-conscious.
If you feel like you’ve tried everything to cure your bad breath but it’s still not working, don’t be discouraged. There’s a solution out there for you! Our dentists can help create a custom treatment plan based on the cause of your bad breath. Contact us today to book your visit.
What causes bad breath?
Gum disease
Bacteria-filled plaque
Inconsistent hygiene
Mouth breathing
Cavities or infection
Tobacco products
Odorous food
Dry mouth
Dental appliances
Mask mouth is real
- Dry mouth. Since your mouth is covered, you may be drinking less water than usual. This can lead to dry mouth, increasing your risk of bad breath.
- Gum disease. Wearing a mask and breathing recycled air can increase your oral microbiome’s acidity, which might put you at risk for bad-breath causing infections or gum disease.
To avoid mask mouth, stay diligent about your oral hygiene care! We also recommend that you continue to drink lots of water and regularly replace or clean your mask to prevent bacterial growth.
How do you know if your breath smells bad?
It’s challenging to smell your own breath and know for sure whether you have halitosis. This inability to accurately assess the smell of your breath is referred to as the “bad breath paradox.” This leads to many people who don’t think they have bad breath think they don’t (and vice versa!)
Visiting your dentist and keeping up on your routine 6-month dental hygiene visit is the best way to diagnose bad breath. But here are a few tricks to assess your breath at home, too:
- Ask a trusted friend or family member!
- Lick the inside of your wrist and smell it (It may sound odd, but the smell of your breath on skin is easier for your nose to pick up.)
- Purchase a halimeter test to measure your volatile sulfur compound (VSC) level — above 100 often indicates bad breath.
Tips for preventing bad breath
Brush your teeth at least 2x a day for 2 minutes & floss daily
See your dentist as instructed for routine preventive care
Avoid cigarettes and tobacco products
Stay hydrated and keep your mouth moist
Don’t rely on sugary breath mints or chewing gum
Breathe through your nose, not your mouth – during the day and while sleeping
How to get rid of bad breath permanently
The best treatment for bad breath depends on the cause. For example, since gum disease is one of the primary causes of bad breath, a treatment plan may include deep cleanings or laser bacterial reduction treatments. We might also recommend an oral appliance to encourage nose breathing vs mouth breathing at night. Or, you may benefit from treatment to address cavities and infection-causing decay.
It’s important to work with a trusted dentist to create a plan that’s best for you and your situation.


Who is the best dentist in Escondido to stop bad breath?
Hear from our patients
Teresa C.
TLC Escondido Dental is the BEST! I have a lot of dental issues. Both Dr. Reyes and Dr. Madrigal have been wonderful. They thoroughly explain and show me all the issues with my teeth and what needs to be done. The hygienist are wonderful. The staff is wonderful. Great dental office.
Jonathan B.
Drs. Reyes and Madrigal are both excellent. They and their staff are highly knowledgeable, compassionate, and strive to give their patients the best results. Cannot recommend TLC highly enough!

Eliminate bad breath today
Give us a call at (760) 741-5775 or contact us to schedule a visit. Once we’ve agreed on the best treatment plan, we can get to work on improving your breath and dental health.
Our office
950 E. Pennsylvania Ave, Suite A
Escondido, CA 92025
Get directions
We’re located just outside of downtown Escondido and offer free on-site parking.
Call: (760) 741-5775
Hours
Monday-Thursday:
7:30 am – 4:30 pm
Friday-Sunday:
Closed