Halitosis

Abstract

Halitosis (oral malodor, bad breath) is a condition affecting millions of Americans and is a major concern to the general public. In healthy individuals complaining of bad breath, the mouth is the main source of their oral malodor, more specifically the posterior dorsum of the tongue. Halitosis may also indicate an underlying medical condition that necessitates treatment. In a patient with oral malodor for whom an underlying systemic problem has been ruled out, improved oral hygiene, removal of tongue plaque, and, if necessary, antibacterial mouth rinses are advised.