Do you know that there are over 600 types of bacteria that live in our mouths? Be very scared. Everybody gets bad breath also known as Halitosis in medical term every often, irrespective of how good his/her oral hygiene is. Bacteria responsible for bad breath thrive in a dry and dark environment of the mouth such as; under the gums, the crevices of the tongue and the spaces between the teeth. Reason is these areas are poorly cleansed or ignored allowing bacteria to flourish and release smelly Volatile Sulphur Compounds [VSCs].

Bad breath is caused by foods that we take like coffee, because it causes it contains acids that decrease deoxgenation of the mouth; sugary foods, dairy products like milk because they are high in proteins and must be broken down by the bacteria hence releasing VSCs. Spicy foods like onions and garlic high in sulphur are absorbed in the blood stream, and expelled by the lungs always result in bad breath. Drugs like cold medication, anti-allergy and antidepressants cause Dry Mouth Syndrome [DMS] that decreases production of saliva leaving the mouth dry allowing room for bacteria to thrive. Alcohol is also another cause since it's exhaled on ones breath and can result to bad breath.

Bad breath also caused by smoking which taints teeth and irritates gums. Other causes are gum diseases, infection of the respiratory system like bronchitis and sinusitis, gastrointestinal disorders, cancer of the mouth and others. To treat bad breath, thoroughly brush your teeth at least twice a day. Floss regularly to remove food particles trapped between the teeth at the gum line. Drink a lot of water during the day. Replace your tooth brush once every three months. Chew some gum after rich meals high in proteins or spices. Rinse you mouth regularly and eat food that help eliminate bad breath like carrots, celery and peanuts.