Bad breath is a condition that sometimes goes unnoticed by patients for long periods of time. It is a common issue most people experience in the morning, though it can become a problem during other times of the day. For your average person, bad breath can be greatly diminished with tongue scraping. However, sometimes bad breath is harder to get rid of, or may be caused by a problem beyond oral hygiene. Some causes of bad breath might include: 1.Certain Foods - (garlic, onions, or other pungent foods) 2.Poor Oral Hygiene 3.Periodontal (Gum) Disease 4.Untreated Cavities 5.Improperly Fitted Dental Appliances 6.Dry Mouth (Xerostomia) 7.Tobacco 8.Dieting 9.Dehydration or Hunger 10.Medical Conditions and Illnesses - (Several conditions may contribute to bad breath, like sinus infections or diabetes.) Follow these steps to help combat bad breath: 1.Keep track of medications and foods to determine the cause of the issue. 2.Brush teeth twice daily, floss daily, use mouthwash/rinses, scrape tongue with a toothbrush or a tongue scraper, and remember to replace toothbrushes every couple of months. 3.If you wear removable dental bridges or dentures, clean them thoroughly every morning. 4.See the dentist regularly for cleanings and check-ups. 5.Do not smoke or chew tobacco. 6.Drink plenty of water to maintain a healthy amount of saliva in the mouth and wash away bacteria.