Bad breath is sometimes caused by obvious factors such as eating certain foods. However, there are a number of hidden and non-obvious conditions that can lead to bad breath; poor oral hygiene and the insufficient removal of plaque from the teeth, chewing tobacco and/or smoking, dry mouth, and certain medical conditions, such as diabetes.
One of the main underlying reasons for bad breath is infection within the gums. If bad breath seems to be a chronic condition, your teeth and gums need to be evaluated by a dentist to check for the existence of periodontal disease. If periodontal disease does exist, there are a number of treatments that can clear up the bacteria, restore oral health, and alleviate bad breath problems permanently from the source.
Recommended twice daily brushing and flossing, removes plaque and helps keep teeth and gums in optimal condition. Medical conditions that cause bad breath need to be properly treated by a physician, and dry mouth can be alleviated through drinking water frequently and using saliva substitutes. Eliminating tobacco products and eating a healthy diet comprised of leafy green vegetables will also help to keep breath fresh
