Bad breath can be difficult to deal with. Sufferers may be embarrassed and avoid contact with others because of fears of offending them. In most cases, however, bad breath can be alleviated if you know what to do. Read on to learn more about the cause of bad breath and what to do about it.

What Causes Bad Breath?

If you suffer from bad breath, you have probably already tried frequent brushing, flossing, and rinsing to rid your mouth of odors. If that did not work, you might consider the below common causes of bad breath:

• Smoking or chewing tobacco.
• Drinking alcohol
• Acid reflux can bring stomach acid into your throat area and cause bad breath
• Lack of professional dental care (such as a professional cleaning regularly)
• Sinus infections can also cause bad breath because the sinus cavities are very near the mouth area.
• Poor dental health such as gum disease, cavities, and more
• Certain medications
• Chronic diseases like diabetes
• Dry mouth

What to Do

If you can identify with any of the above issues, do what you can to eradicate the cause. Smoking can be a difficult habit to break but the benefits of stopping go far beyond that of eliminating bad breath. Other steps you can take include:

1. See your dentist's hygienist for regular professional cleanings. At-home care alone won't remove plaque and tartar from your teeth.
2. Ask your doctor about medications that don't reduce saliva production in your mouth. Having a dry mouth can cause bad breath.
3. You can add moisture with sprays and chewing gums that lubricate your mouth.
4. Acid reflux can not only give you bad breath, but it can also wear away the enamel on your teeth. That can result in more fragile teeth that may decay quicker. Use sugar-free gum to help rid your mouth of odors.
5. Avoid foods that can linger in your mouth even after brushing. Garlic, onions, salsa, pickles, and other foods and drinks can worsen your bad breath.    
6. Drink lots of water. It helps keep your mouth moist and healthy. Water also rinses away bacteria that cause odors.
7. Don't forget to brush your tongue as well as your teeth.
8. Carry along a toothbrush and a small tube of toothpaste wherever you go so you can brush right after you eat.

Talk to your dentist. They may be able to help you identify the cause of your bad breath and help you to deal with it. You don't have to put up with bad breath. Get help and get back to your social life again.