What is bad breath (halitosis)?

As the name suggests, halitosis, also known as bad breath, is an unpleasant odor emanating from the mouth or nose that is bothersome to the person experiencing it and those around them.

What are the different types of bad breath?

Bad breath is generally divided into two categories: pathological and physiological.

Physiological bad breath

The causes of this type of bad breath include the digestive process of certain foods in the stomach, poorly cleaned oral hygiene, improper dental restorations, decayed teeth, gum problems, and smoking. Because it’s not systemic, it’s temporary and can be controlled with brushing and solutions. To prevent it, brushing the back of the tongue, using a zinc-containing mouthwash (not constantly), and chewing gum are good solutions.

Pathological halitosis

Individuals with this type of halitosis are either unaware of the bad odor or tolerate and endure it. While 80-90% of halitosis originates from intraoral causes, it can also stem from many extraoral factors. Examples of intraoral causes include gum disease, tongue coating, food particles, mouth sores, soiled dentures, and decreased saliva production. Disorders of salivary gland function can also cause bad breath, as can antidepressants, antipsychotics, and narcotics, which can lead to reduced saliva production. Individuals with pathological halitosis are either unaware of the bad odor, tolerate it, or have accepted it. 80-90% of pathological halitosis cases originate from the mouth, and 10-20% from extraoral sources. This condition is divided into three categories:

• Type 1: These patients notice the bad breath problem themselves, and approximately 24% of them apply to the clinic.

• Type 2: The bad breath problem of these patients is noticed by the people around them, and about 50% of these patients apply to a physician.

• Type 3: These patients do not notice it themselves, nor does their immediate circle, but they have suspicions or make assumptions. A large majority of these patients apply to a dentist.

What is halitosis measurement?

Halitosis measurement is performed using a device called a halitometer. It helps in planning the treatment of bad breath and determining whether the treatment has been successful. In our hospital, personalized measurements are taken with a halitometer to prevent bad breath problems.

Which department deals with halitosis?

Halitosis treatment is usually performed by dentists specializing in periodontology, a major branch of dentistry.