Causes, symptoms and treatment of bad breath (Halitosis)

Bad breath also known as halitosis can be an embarrassing problem which happens to millions of people worldwide.
A lot of people go about their daily activities with this disorder unaware. A close contact with such individuals can kick one off balance.

Symptoms of Halitosis:

- A thick coated tongue which may be either white or yellow in color
- A dry tongue
- Bad breath smell
- unpleasant or sour taste or changes in taste.

Causes of Halitosis:

- Poor oral hygiene
- Diabetes can result in bad breath
- Eating strong smelling foods such as garlic, acidic beverages, spicy foods or fish
- Cigarette or tobacco smoking
- Buildup of bacteria in your mouth that causes inflammation and gives off noxious odors or gases that smell like sulfur -- or worse.

Treatment:

Brushing the teeth and tongue, and flossing, can often get rid of bad breath, at least in the short term.
Mouthwash may temporarily mask bad breath and can help with oral hygiene.

Tongue scraping, together with proper oral hygiene is the most effective common treatment against the causes of halitosis. 
If proper oral hygiene does not get rid of bad breath, see a dentist or doctor for a diagnosis.