Halitosis or bad breath is an oral health condition which is characterized by unpleasant odorous breath. It is a sign of ill health as well as it is a social stigma. All people have experienced bad breath at one time and in many people it is common at all times. This condition produces a wide array of smells related with bad breath. The word halitosis is derived from the Latin word “halitus,” which means breath, and the Greek suffix “osis,” which means condition. All bad breath odors are mainly originated from the mouth itself, although non-oral parts for example the upper and lower respiratory tracts, the gastrointestinal tract, and some diseases involving the kidneys or the liver may also be the reason for halitosis.

Halitosis has a considerable brunt personally and socially on those sufferring from it or believes they do (halitophobia), and is expected to be the third-most-frequent cause for seeking dental help following tooth decay and periodontal disease. Most people who upset in this respect are unluckily completely ignorant of their problem and the discomfort they cause to others. Depending on the causes, halitosis can be acute or chronic.

Some common causes of halitosis include:

Poor oral health care:

Food remains in the mouth without proper and consistent brushing and flossing and acts as a breeding ground for bacteria, resulting in odorous breath. Food that is allowed to gather on the teeth, gums, and tongue may cause the gums to decompose, which causes an unpleasant odor and taste in the mouth.

Certain foods:

The foods that you consume contribute largely to your oral health care, including your breath. Items for example garlic and onions, or any food, are absorbed into the bloodstream, become transferred into the lungs, and become excluded in the air you exhale. The potential for it affecting a person’s breath is present until that food becomes removed by the body.

Improper cleaning of dentures:

Unclean dentures or improperly cleaned dentures may be collecting bacteria and remaining food particles which cause bad breath.

Periodontal disease:

Foul, odorous breath and an unpleasant taste in the mouth is one of the primary symptoms of this gum disease. Immediate care by an oral health professional is necessary for this condition.

Xerostomia (dry mouth):

Halitosis may be caused largely by this condition. It is characterized by a significant reduction in saliva production, the mouth is incapable to cleanse itself and eliminate debris and particles left behind by food. Xerostomia may be caused by a salivary gland disorder, certain medications, or by constantly breathing through the mouth, in place of the nose.

Tobacco products:

Tobacco products such as cigarettes, cigars, smokeless tobacco, and snuff stain the teeth and place the body at risk for a host of diseases. Also, they contribute to bad breath. Users of tobacco products are also at an increased risk for the following:

A loss of taste abilities

Irritated gums

Periodontal disease

A medical condition:

Bad breath may be a marker or symptom of any of the following conditions but each individual may experience symptoms differently. For a diagnosis, consult your physician.

Diabetes

A gastrointestinal disorder

A liver or kidney disorder

A respiratory infection

Infection of the nose, windpipe, or lungs

Chronic bronchitis

Postnasal drip

Chronic sinusitis

Severe dieting:

During fasting, individuals may develop unpleasant “fruity” breath from keto-acidosis which is because of the breakdown of chemicals. Restriction of caloric intake leads to starvation which can cause a dry mouth.

Factors that affect the airways and cause bad breath:

Dryness

Bronchitis

Nasal Polyps

Foreign bodies

Sinusitis

Pneumonia