Halitosis (bad breath) may be caused by any number of factors, including: Morning time Poor oral hygiene Cavities Periodontal disease Poorly fitted appliances Dry mouth Tobacco products Medical conditions or illnesses Dehydration, hunger or missed meals Certain foods You can prevent bad breath by visiting our dentists regularly, staying hydrated, practicing good oral hygiene, using mouth rinses and by not using tobacco products. If your halitosis persists, we recommend that you consult a physician to determine if your bad breath is caused by a medical condition and receive an appropriate treatment.