Halitosis treatment is not a single visit. It is a measured process — find the bacteria, treat them, re-measure, adjust. That's why our patients stay better.
Treatment Programs
Diagnostic-led halitosis treatment that actually lasts.
We measure volatile sulfur compounds, identify the bacteria producing them, and treat the source — then re-measure to confirm results.
Free 15-minute phone consult · Mon · Tue · Thu 7am – 4pm · Wed 10am – 7pm
- 25+ years of halitosis-focused care in Berkeley
- Halimeter VSC testing in-office
- Written plan, tracked outcomes
Clinically reviewed by Dr. Teah Nguyen, DDS
At a glance
The BreathCure halitosis program is a measured, four-program approach: diagnose the bacterial source with halimeter VSC testing, treat what's actually driving the odor, and re-measure at 6 weeks to confirm the protocol is working.
- Approach
- Diagnose source, treat bacteria, track VSCs
- Typical duration
- 6-12 weeks to durable improvement
- First step
- 60-min diagnostic exam
Photo: Ozkan Guner / Unsplash Diagnostics-first protocol — every visit produces measurable data we treat against.
Four Programs
Programs matched to the source of your halitosis
Every patient starts with the diagnostic program. Based on what we find, treatment continues into one or more of the targeted programs below.
Program 01
Halitosis Diagnostic Program
The starting point for every patient. Halimeter VSC measurement, tongue and periodontal exam, sinus history, and a written treatment plan tailored to the dominant source of odor.
Learn moreProgram 02
Periodontal Halitosis Protocol
When subgingival bacteria are the primary driver. Combines scaling and root planing with targeted antimicrobial rinses and 3-month maintenance intervals.
Learn moreProgram 03
Xerostomia Management Protocol
When reduced saliva is feeding the bacteria. Medication review, salivary-flow restoration, fluoride protocols, and saliva-substitute therapy.
Learn moreProgram 04
Sinus-Halitosis Coordinated Care
When post-nasal drainage is the source. Oral protocol combined with ENT-coordinated sinus and allergy management for lasting results.
Learn more
Photo: Ozkan Guner / Unsplash The first visit is 60 minutes. You leave with a halimeter reading, a written plan, and a follow-up date.
Your Journey
What treatment looks like start to finish
- 01Visit 1
Diagnose
60-minute halitosis exam: halimeter VSC reading, tongue and periodontal assessment, sinus history. You leave with a written plan.
- 02Weeks 1-2
Treat the source
Tongue debridement, periodontal therapy, or coordinated ENT care depending on the primary source identified.
- 03Weeks 2-6
Home protocol
Daily home-care protocol: technique, products, and routines targeting your specific bacterial profile.
- 04Visit 2
VSC re-test
Follow-up halimeter reading at 6 weeks. Objective measurement of progress — and adjustment of the protocol if numbers have not dropped.
- 05Ongoing
Maintain
Maintenance interval (typically every 3-4 months) until breath stays in normal range without active treatment.
Patient stories
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“Dr. Dailley was spot on in solving my halitosis problem after consultation. Very informative — a life-changing moment.”
— Victor V.
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“Dr. Teah took over the practice and is excellent — caring, considerate, and very professional.”
— Diana A., Berkeley
Frequently asked questions
How long does halitosis treatment take?
Most patients see meaningful improvement within 2-4 weeks of starting their protocol, with durable results — confirmed by halimeter re-test — typically established by 6-12 weeks. The exact timeline depends on the dominant source of odor.
What makes this different from a regular dental cleaning?
A regular cleaning addresses plaque and tartar above the gumline. Halitosis treatment is diagnostic-led: we measure VSCs directly, identify the specific bacterial source, and treat that source — which may include subgingival cleaning, tongue debridement, sinus coordination, or all three.
Will I need ongoing treatment forever?
Most patients transition from active treatment to maintenance within 6-12 weeks. Maintenance visits typically every 3-4 months keep the bacterial environment in check; many patients eventually shift to standard 6-month intervals once stable.
Do you accept insurance?
Yes — most PPO dental plans cover the diagnostic exam and any periodontal treatment indicated. Adjunctive therapies (specialty rinses, lozenges) are usually out-of-pocket. We verify benefits before your visit so there are no surprises.
What if I have already tried other treatments without success?
That is the most common patient profile here. Standard dental cleanings and over-the-counter products fail because they treat symptoms, not the source. The halimeter test plus a focused exam usually identifies the missing piece on the first visit.