Halitosis: An Overview

Halitosis or Oral malodor is a foul or offensive odor emanating from the mouth and is a frequent cause for patients to seek treatment. Intraoral and extraoral factors have been attributed to halitosis. In most cases bad breath originates from the oral cavity itself. Poor oral hygiene, periodontal pockets, faulty restorations, dry sockets, unclean dentures and abscesses are often overlooked as potential sources of Volatile Sulfur Compounds. A variety of methods like organoleptic assessment, gas chromatography, and sulfide monitoring have been used to assess oral malodor. To date, no specific treatment modality has shown consistent results in all cases because of the varied causes for oral malodor. Research is still underway to find a cure for this socially embarrassing problem. In most cases, good professional oral care combined with a daily regimen of oral hygiene, including interdental cleaning, tongue cleaning, and the optional use of a mouthrinse, can lead to improvement. Patient education about oral hygiene practices is crucial for treatment to be effective.