“Morning breath” is caused by breathing through the mouth during sleep; saliva dries out, allowing bacteria to multiply and produce bad -smelling gases. Any medication or condition that reduces saliva flow can do the dame. Similarly, periodontal disease often gives bacteria an unwelcome edge, and bacteria in the sinuses or tonsils can sometimes pitch in. But in many cases bacteria that are present in every healthy mouth get the upper hand and cause halitosis (condition where a person has breath with smells unpleasant).

If you have bad breath, here is what to do --

*Keep your saliva flowing. Drink plenty of water, chew gum (sugarless, please), and avoid antihistamines and other medications with anticholinergic actions that dry the mouth.

*See a dentist regularly and get prompt treatment for any problems.

*Practice meticulous oral hygiene by flossing (to clean the teeth with soft thread which can be pulled between the teeth to help keep them clean) regularly and brushing teeth and tongue diligently.

*Don’t smoke or chew tobacco.

*Use an antibacterial mouthwash.

*Keep breath mints on hand for a quick, if temporary, cover-up.

*Relax. Halitosis is a common problem and it is usually much less bothersome to other people than to the person with bad breath.

Source: American Dental Association