Most instances of bad breath are bacterial halitosis, or bad breath that is caused by bacterial activity in the mouth. Food gets stuck between your teeth, on the surface of your tongue and also around your gums.

If you do not brush your teeth after every meal and floss every day the food will remain there and decay. When the little pieces of food start to rot, it will start to breed bacteria and the bacteria will begin to emit Volatile Sulfur Compounds that gives you the smell associated with bacterial halitosis. The bacteria may also cause gingivitis and other gum diseases which is also one of the causes of bad breath.

There are different scents that correspond to the varied substances that the bacteria release.

• If your breath smells like used socks then what you smell is most likely methyl mercaptan;
• Hydrogen sulfide smells like rotten eggs;
• Putrescine and Cadaverine reminds one of an old smelly garage.

How can I prevent bad breath orbacterial halitosis?

Many people want to know if there are steps, techniques or products that can be used or applied which can prevent bacterial halitosis. The following are some practices and advice that you can take to prevent bacterial halitosis.

· Always remember to brush your teeth after every meal. You may want to find a toothepase that contains baking powder, which helps cleanse the mouth area. Make sure you brush along the gum line as well as the tooth surface. Every time you brush your teeth, always remember to lightly brush your tongue.

• Try to reduce the amount of meat you consume and eat more fruits and vegetables.
• Remember to floss every day to get rid of the bits of food stuck between your teeth.
• If you own removable dentures make sure to take them out for cleaning every night.  Brush them thoroughly and put them in glass with disinfectant over night. Retainers and removable braces should also be cleaned regularly. Do not forget to follow the instructions the dentist gave you.
• Dry mouth can also trigger bad breath so try to drink more water or suck on sugar-free mints, or chew sugar-free gum.
• Make an appointment with your dentist every 6 months for cleaning and check-ups.
• A majority of mouthwashes don't have a long lasting effect on bacterial halitosis. For it to be effective longer swish the mouthwash for about 30 seconds before spitting it out of your mouth.

These are a few of the many causes and posible treatments for bacterial halitosis. Before you give up hope, make sure you have tried everything you can. Most bad breath problems can be solved with natural remedies!