Do you have bad breath? You sinuses could be the cause. More than 25 million Americans suffer from sinus problems, and a sudden bout of halitosis is a common symptom of a sinus infection.

Sinusitis increases the amount of mucous and causes bacteria already in the mouth to thrive. According to dentists at Texas A&M Health Science Center Baylor College of Dentistry, a patient who usually has fresh breath and practices proper oral hygiene should take steps to get rid of the sinus infection quickly.

A visit to your physician should get the infection under control, but even though a prescription medication may eliminate the infection, it may not immediately leave your breath smelling fresh.

“Bad breath can also be caused by dry mouth, which occurs when the flow of saliva decreases,” Dr. Charles W. Wakefield, professor and director of the Advanced Education in General Dentistry Residency Program, said in a statement. “Saliva is necessary to cleanse the mouth, fight germs, and remove particles that may cause odor. Some medications can cause dry mouth.”

Follow these steps to conquer halitosis:

• Treat the infection with medications recommended by your doctor.
• Brush and floss diligently.
• Use an antimicrobial rinse to keep the mouth from being dry.
• Brush your tongue. Bacteria hide in the crevices of your tongue.
• Try a saline nasal wash, advises eHow.com, which can remove mucous and bacteria from the sinuses.
• Use mints or gum sweetened with xylitol.