In addition, if sugared mouth mints and gum are regularly used, the risk for cavities is increased. Another factor in creating bad breath is the type of food eaten. Odors from foods can last for a long time depending on the food. There is no quick cure for spicy or garlicky foods except time. The odors will keep coming into the oral cavity from the digestive system over time as food is broken down.
Avoidance is the only real way of tackling food odors.
The use of tobacco in all forms can also contribute to bad breath and it is hard to treat unless the habit is broken. The degree of exhaled bad breath from the respiratory tract is directly related to the odor intensity present in the type of tobacco use. Thus cigar and pipe smoking have a greater risk of bad breath due to their intense initial odors. One factor is treatable is the bad breath due to bacterial plaque, as it places deposits on the oral surfaces in and around the teeth. Flossing really finishes off the mouth since the bacteria around our gumlines smells the worst.