Bad breath, or as it is medically known, halitosis, is a common problem, affecting almost all of us at one time or another. Bad breath is caused by odor-producing bacteria that grow in the mouth. When you don't brush and floss regularly, bacteria accumulate on the bits of food left in your mouth and between your teeth. The sulfur compounds released by these bacteria make your breath smell. Halitosis -- known as bad breath to most -- is an embarrassing condition that can affect anyone at anytime, and is caused by several factors. The most common causes of bad breath are preventable and easily treated, however certain medical conditions may also cause bad breath.

Cause of bad breath

1. Dieting can cause bad breath in the form of a hunger odor, a.k.a. "morning breath," which goes along with the sensation of hunger. Some evidence leads to the conclusion that this odor is a product of the decomposition and rotting of pancreatic juices, which passes into the stomach while the body fasts. The odor worsens if one skips breakfast.

2. Gasses produced during the digestive process may escape through your mouth, emanating the odor it produces. Poor digestion resulting in constipation and disorders of the bowel may contribute to bad breath again, from the gasses that are produced during this process.

3. Certain foods, especially ones like garlic and onions that contain pungent oils, can contribute to bad breath because the oils are carried to your lungs and out through your mouth. Smoking is also a major cause of bad breath.

4. Another cause of bad breath is a condition called xerostomia, or dry mouth, which is a common side effect of various medications, especially inhalations for asthma and bronchitis, and can be treated by the dentist, who may prescribe an artificial saliva substitute.

5. Gum disease, most certainly, can cause bad breath, because food trapped in gum pockets can rot and ferment, which releases sulfur products, and increases tartar buildup on the teeth, which also traps bacteria that release sulfur products. Most know that smoking causes bad breath.

, and that heart problems eventually result from the habit.

6. The smoke produced from a cigarette is inhaled into the lungs, and then exhaled through the nose and mouth. This causes an immediate effect on your breath because the chemicals and residue from the smoke remain in your mouth and airways. Continued use of cigarettes contribute to gum disease, a major cause of bad breath.