Halitosis
(Diseases)
This page will help answer your questions about Halitosis
What is Halitosis?
Bad breath, also known as “halitosis,” is a health issue that causes great concern among patients, as it leads to social embarrassment and isolation. It is often discovered during a routine dental examination, and the person may not be aware of the problem. With the growing awareness of the importance of oral health, many seek medical advice to address this issue.
Bad breath is usually caused by sulfur-producing bacteria that live on the surface of the tongue and throat. In some cases, these bacteria start breaking down proteins at a high rate, releasing volatile sulfur compounds with an unpleasant odor.
What are the types of Halitosis?
- Halitosis is classified into two groups:
- True Halitosis:
Pathologic halitosis: caused by organic reasons, such as oral infections, gum diseases, or digestive system problems, leading to persistent bad breath despite good oral hygiene.
- Physiologic halitosis: a temporary type of bad breath that may occur after eating certain foods (such as garlic or onions) or due to dry mouth, and it usually disappears after eating or drinking water.
- Pseudohalitosis:
False halitosis: the patient complains of bad breath, but others, including the doctor, do not notice it.
Halitophobia: the patient fears that others will consider their breath bad and believes it remains so despite treatment.
What are the causes of Halitosis?
Oral causes:
Oral causes account for about 80% to 85% of halitosis cases and include gum diseases, cancers, and cancer treatments, as well as bone infections, such as jaw inflammation. Contributing factors also include deep tooth decay, misaligned teeth, and ill-fitting dentures. Oral tumors, such as tongue or cheek cancer, can also lead to microbial accumulation.
Non-oral causes:
Respiratory system: including the nose, sinuses, and tonsils, where infections such as sore throat and tonsillitis can cause bad odor. Lung diseases, such as pneumonia, also play a role.
Digestive system: the most common non-oral cause, including acid reflux and ulcers.
Metabolic and systemic disorders: such as diabetes, which causes a fruity odor, and kidney failure, which produces an ammonia-like smell.
Medication-related halitosis: some medications, such as chloral hydrate and antihistamines, may cause bad breath.
Other causes:
Consumption of foods and drinks with strong or spicy odors.
Following strict diets.
Smoking.
How is Halitosis managed?
Poor oral hygiene is one of the main causes of bad breath, so maintain oral cleanliness by:
Brushing teeth and tongue twice daily.
Using toothpaste containing fluoride.
Flossing daily.
Having regular dental checkups.
Keeping dentures clean and removing them at night.
Using sugar-free gum or candy after consuming strong-smelling foods.
Trying antibacterial mouthwashes.
- If there are non-oral causes, a doctor should be consulted to determine the appropriate treatment.
- When should you see a doctor?
- Bad breath that does not go away after self-treatment for several weeks.
- Pain, swelling, or bleeding gums.
Toothache or loose permanent teeth.
Problems with dentures.
Frequently asked questions
What are the symptoms of Halitosis?
White coating on the tongue, especially on the back part.
Dry mouth.
Build-up around teeth.
Post-nasal drip or mucus.
Bad breath in the morning and a burning sensation on the tongue.
