(HealthDay News) -- Bad breath -- medically called halitosis -- is frequently caused by rotting food particles that collect between the teeth, on the tongue and near the gumline.

The American Dental Association says common causes of halitosis include:

• Eating potent foods, such as onions or garlic.
• Not eating frequently enough.
• Not brushing and flossing your teeth each day.
• Having a dry mouth from lack of saliva.
• Using tobacco products.
• Having a medical disorder such as sinusitis, postnasal drip, respiratory infection, or liver or kidney problem.