In about 90% of cases, bad breath traces its origins in the mouth itself and the intensity varies during the day, as a result of stress, eating certain foods, smoking or consuming alcohol. Most conditions are considered transient or temporary and can easily be treated by regular brushing, flossing and the use of a specialized mouthwash. At least 25% of cases, however, is chronic and requires more focused treatment by a medical professional.

Although the exact causes of halitosis are not yet fully understood, the most unpleasant odors are believed to come from proteins processed by oral bacteria and excreted as sulfur compounds. The most common location of the odors that originate in the mouth is the back of our tongue, which is why it is important to brush not only the teeth, but the tongue as well.

For the more serious cases of bad breath, sinusitis, gum disease and gastric disorders are often pinpointed as major culprits. Odor exiting the nostrils of a person suffering from sinus infections can be quite pungent, and bacteria that grow below the gum line are known to emit a foul smell upon removal. Some gastrointestinal disorders are also said to cause bad breath due to the gases that are emitted from the stomach and exits through the mouth.

Whatever its cause, there is no doubt that halitosis has an adverse negative effect on a person's professional, social and personal relationships, thus resulting in a low self-esteem and high stress levels. This makes immediate treatment even more important for sufferers. It is necessary that the problem is dealt with before a person's self-esteem suffers permanent damage.

Chronic bad breath is made even worse by the fact that most sufferers have tried all the usual treatment options for bad breath. When regular brushing, flossing and all the mouthwashes and mints in the world just don’t do the job, it may mean that your condition is caused by some underlying health concerns.

So, do you have chronic bad breath? The situation may sound hopeless, but it doesn't have to be. The solution to your dilemma may be as simple as a trip to your doctor. The necessary first step may be to consult your dentist to see if gum disease is the culprit. If it is not, then you will need to go to your family physician for a general check-up. Your halitosis may be caused by a more serious health problem that needs to be addressed.

While it is unfortunate that you have to suffer from chronic bad breath, the good news is that it can be treated. You don't have to live with the embarrassment for the rest of your life because there are steps that you can take to get rid of the problem once and for all.

Hopefully, after consulting with your doctor and identifying any existing health issue that causes halitosis, you can start looking forward to a fresher breath. This time, when asked "Do you have chronic bad breath?” you can readily smile and say, "Not anymore".