What Is Halitosis?

When individuals brush their teeth, oral odors disappear. But, for those with halitosis, the chronic form of bad breath, the odor can linger and remains persistent. The condition can be very difficult to self-diagnose as the bad scent may be familiar to individuals who have it, and yet it severely bothers those around them. Bad breath can significantly impact a patient's social life, work as well as other aspects of daily living, including for children who suffer from halitosis.

If it has been noted bad oral odor lingers after a regular brushing and flossing routine, halitosis may be to blame. Learn about all the facts related to bad breath and halitosis now.

Symptoms And Identifying Halitosis

Halitosis is characterized by bad odor, though the specific smell will vary between individuals. There are, though, other symptoms and identifying halitosis can be based upon them. Individuals with halitosis often may also experience a perpetually dry mouth and tongue, which might also develop a layer of white film on it. Thick saliva and difficulty swallowing mucous may occur as well. Oftentimes, halitosis patients cannot even identify it in themselves and will need a friend or doctor to assess it for them. However, if no one else is available, one way of identifying halitosis in oneself is to lick the wrist, allow the saliva to dry, then smell it. A bad odor will typically follow if the condition is present.

Learn about the various causes of halitosis next.

What Causes Halitosis?

Many oral conditions and diseases can result in halitosis as a significant symptom or complication. The most common oral issues that are seen with halitosis include poor oral hygiene practices such as improper brushing and flossing (or lack of it), gum disease, consuming pungent foods, smoking, and chewing tobacco. Dry mouth is also important to note as a cause, since it can also appear as a significant symptom of halitosis in some cases. Sometimes dry mouth is the result of a medical condition or reaction to a medication, but some individuals also have naturally drier mouths, which can increase their risk of developing halitosis, particular when other causes are considered.

Uncover the details on non-oral diseases that can cause chronic bad breath now.