Health Tip: What's Behind Bad Breath?

Bad breath, also known as halitosis, should be evaluated by a dentist to determine a possible cause and treatment.

The American Dental Association says potential causes include:

• Eating potent food, such as garlic or onions.
• Dieting excessively or not eating enough.
• Not brushing or flossing regularly to remove food particles from the teeth and gums.
• Having gum disease.
• Having insufficient saliva to help wash away food particles.
• Smoking or chewing tobacco.
• Having a medical condition, such as liver or kidney problems, a lung infection, diabetes or bronchitis.