What is Halitosis?

Study Notes

Halitosis, also known as bad breath, is a common condition characterized by an unpleasant odor emanating from the mouth.
It is estimated to affect approximately 20-30% of the population worldwide.

Dental issues:
- Gingivitis
- Periodontitis
- Dry mouth (xerostomia)
- Coated tongue
- Poor oral hygiene
Gastrointestinal issues:
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
Systemic diseases:
- Diabetes
- Kidney disease
- Liver disease
- Respiratory infections
Diet and lifestyle:
- Consuming strong-smelling foods (e.g., garlic, onions)
- Smoking
- Alcohol consumption
- Inadequate hydration
- Certain medications

Bad breath:
- Unpleasant odor from the mouth
- May be constant or intermittent
Dry mouth:
- Sticky or dry feeling in the mouth
- Difficulty swallowing or speaking
Taste disturbances:
- Metallic or sour taste
- Reduced ability to taste food

Dental examination:
- Visual examination of the teeth and gums
- Review of oral hygiene habits
Tongue scraping:
- Removing bacteria and debris from the tongue
Breath odor measurement:
- Using a halimeter to measure volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs)
Treatment:
- Good oral hygiene practices
- Regular dental check-ups
- Antibacterial mouthwashes
- Managing underlying medical conditions
- Dietary changes (e.g., reducing sugar intake)

Halitosis, also known as bad breath, is a common condition characterized by an unpleasant odor from the mouth.
It affects approximately 20-30% of the population worldwide.

Dental issues: • Gingivitis • Periodontitis • Dry mouth (xerostomia) • Coated tongue • Poor oral hygiene
Gastrointestinal issues: • Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) • Constipation • Diarrhea
Systemic diseases: • Diabetes • Kidney disease • Liver disease • Respiratory infections
Diet and lifestyle: • Consuming strong-smelling foods (e.g., garlic, onions) • Smoking • Alcohol consumption • Inadequate hydration • Certain medications

Bad breath: • Unpleasant odor from the mouth • May be constant or intermittent
Dry mouth: • Sticky or dry feeling in the mouth • Difficulty swallowing or speaking
Taste disturbances: • Metallic or sour taste • Reduced ability to taste food

Dental examination: • Visual examination of the teeth and gums • Review of oral hygiene habits
Tongue scraping: • Removing bacteria and debris from the tongue
Breath odor measurement: • Using a halimeter to measure volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs)
Treatment: • Good oral hygiene practices • Regular dental check-ups • Antibacterial mouthwashes • Managing underlying medical conditions • Dietary changes (e.g., reducing sugar intake)