This explains why Americans spend $3 to $4 billion each year for oral care products. Therefore it is important to know what causes bad breath so that from these causes, we would learn the ways on how to prevent it. The primary cause of bad breath is poor oral hygiene. Dentists and even commercial ads recommend that we should brush our teeth 2 times a day for at least 2 minutes (some say 3 minutes). Some may also brush and floss their teeth properly and still unable to eliminate bad breath. This is because most bad breath causing bacteria reside on the tongue needs, thus it must be cleaned as well. Myth #5 Changing your diet can cure bad breath Avoiding foods that contain sulfur such as cabbage and onions can help stop temporary bad breath. Crunchy fruits and Vegetables Speaking of the power of nature, there are several fruits and vegetables that naturally cleanse the mouth. They are often referred to as "auto floss" for they act just like your commercial dental floss, but healthier. Such fruits and vegetables are apple, cucumber, carrot, and of course, parsley. 5 to 10 drops of the same mixture can be dropped to each nostril. Expect a little burning, it is normal. Do this 2 times a day until the infection is gone. Baking soda and water. A pinch of baking soda mixed with water is another effective and inexpensive way to treat bad breath. Aloe vera and water. If you are wondering if those weird-looking devices you have encountered lately are included in the list, well there's one definite answer to that- yes! However, many of us still live and trust the art and antiques caught from the middle ages or the Stone Age for that matter. Well, these people have good reasons for that. This is because coffee contains acid that reduce oxygenation of the mouth. This results to the increase of the production of bacteria. Sugar-based products also provide bacteria to produce VSCs. Several spices such as garlic and onion contain pungent oil that when digested, is mixed through the bloodstream and expelled by the lungs and through the mouth creating nasty-smelling breath.