Halitosis or bad breath is an unpleasant odor that comes from the mouth and most often originates in the mouth itself, specifically the tongue and gums. It may result from bacterial products, degradation of food debris and/or inadequate oral hygiene, as the degradation of food debris by bacteria results in sulphorous compounds responsible for bad odor. Poor oral hygiene is the most common cause of bad breath. Other causes include: tobacco, certain foods, dry mouth, fasting, taking certain medications, a foreign body lodged in the respiratory system, gastroesophageal reflux as well as other diseases affecting the mouth, nose, or throat. The best treatment for bad breath is brushing your teeth well (2-3 times a day) and brushing the tongue at the end; adequate flossing once a day; washing and brushing any dental prostheses, retainer or splint well; and hydration. If the bad breath persists, you should consult your dentist for a careful evaluation and, if the cause is still to be determined, also your doctor.

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