Arjun MR¹*, Anil Melath², Swathi S^3*, Sana Fathima VP⁴

¹Reader, Department of Periodontics, Mahe Institute of Dental Sciences and Hospital, India
²Professor and Hod, Department of Periodontics, Mahe Institute of Dental Sciences and Hospital, India
³Post Graduate Student, Department of Periodontics, Mahe Institute of Dental Sciences and Hospital, India
⁴Under Graduate Student, Mahe Institute of Dental Sciences and Hospital, India

*Corresponding Author: Swathi S, Post Graduate Student, Department of Periodontics, Mahe Institute of Dental Sciences and Hospital, India.

Received: May 05, 2026; Published: July 01, 2026

Halitosis, commonly known as bad breath, is a prevalent oral health concern that can significantly affect an individual’s social interactions, self-confidence, and overall quality of life. It is a multifactorial condition with oral and extraoral causes, although the majority of cases originate within the oral cavity. Common oral factors include tongue coating, poor oral hygiene, periodontal disease, dental caries, food impaction, and reduced salivary flow. Extraoral causes may include gastrointestinal disorders, upper respiratory tract infections, metabolic conditions, and certain medications. Because of its broad etiology, halitosis requires careful clinical evaluation to identify the underlying cause and provide appropriate management. This review aims to summarize the current understanding of halitosis with emphasis on its etiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment options. The condition is primarily associated with the production of volatile sulfur compounds by anaerobic bacteria acting on protein substrates in the oral cavity. Diagnosis is based on a detailed history, clinical examination, organoleptic assessment, and, when available, objective methods such as gas chromatography or portable sulfide monitors. Early recognition is important, as halitosis may sometimes indicate an underlying systemic or oral pathology that requires treatment Although halitosis is often considered a minor complaint, its impact on psychological well-being and social functioning can be substantial. A clear understanding of its causes and management strategies is essential for dental and medical professionals. This review highlights the importance of a systematic approach to diagnosis and treatment, with the goal of improving oral health and patient quality of life.

Keyworda: Halitosis; Bad Breath; Oral Malodor; Volatile Sulphur Compounds; Oral Hygiene; Periodontal Disease; Etiology

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Citation

Citation: Swathi S., et al. “Halitosis: The Science Behind Bad Breathe". Acta Scientific Dental Sciences 10.7 (2026): 55-60.

Copyright

Copyright: © 2026 Swathi S., et al. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited.