What is bad breath (halitosis)?

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  1. American Dental Association
     
    Bad breath, or halitosis, affects the air you exhale. Once the food is absorbed into the bloodstream, it is transferred to the lungs, where it is expelled. Brushing, flossing and mouthwash will only mask the odor temporarily. Your dentist can help identify the cause of bad breath and, if it’s due to an oral condition, develop a treatment plan to help eliminate it.
    More Related Answers from American Dental Association
    Bad breath, or halitosis, affects the air you exhale. Once the food is absorbed into the bloodstream, it is transferred to the lungs, where it is expelled. Brushing, flossing and mouthwash will only mask the odor temporarily. Your... More
  2. Dr. De Vizio
     
    Dr. De Vizio of Colgate answered:

    People with bad breath (halitosis), have an unpleasant odor when they exhale. Your breath may be offensive or have an odd smell that indicates an underlying cause. Bad breath is prominent when you speak or breathe, since the mouth, and nasal passages are connected. Most people will have this condition at some time during their life.

    More Related Answers from Colgate
    People with bad breath (halitosis), have an unpleasant odor when they exhale. Your breath may be offensive or have an odd smell that indicates an underlying cause. Bad breath is prominent when you speak or breathe, since the mouth, and nasal... More
  3. Dr. Tom Berry
     
    Dr. Tom Berry answered:

    Halitosis is the correct medical term for bad breath. It is a mouth odor that generally originates from the gums and the tongue and on occasion the lungs.

     

     

    More Related Answers from Dr. Tom Berry
    Halitosis is the correct medical term for bad breath. It is a mouth odor that generally originates from the gums and the tongue and on occasion the lungs.     More
  4.  Joan Haizlip
     
    Joan Haizlip answered:

    Halitosis is a medical term for ‘bad breath’.  Halitosis can be caused by rotting food that gets stuck in your mouth if you don’t brush after meals.  Rotten food also helps bacteria grow and this can lead to gum disease (gingivitis).  Gingivitis can also cause bad breath.

     

    More Related Answers from Joan Haizlip
    Halitosis is a medical term for ‘bad breath’.  Halitosis can be caused by rotting food that gets stuck in your mouth if you don’t brush after meals.  Rotten food also helps bacteria grow and this can lead to gum disease... More
  5. Natural Standard, The Authority on Integrative Medicine
     

    Halitosis is the medical name for bad breath. The foul odor may occur periodically or be persistent, depending on the cause.

    Some types of bad breath, including morning breath, are considered normal and are not causes for concern. This type of bad breath typically occurs because the mouth becomes dry at night, and dead cells stick to the tongue and inside of the cheeks. Bacteria eat these dead cells, and expel compounds that cause foul odors.

    There are many other potential causes of halitosis, including poor oral hygiene and certain foods, such as garlic. Bad breath may also be a sign of an underlying medical condition.

    Treatment for bad breath depends on the underlying cause. For instance, if poor oral hygiene is causing symptoms, the individual's breath will improve once he/she starts brushing and flossing the teeth regularly. In contrast, bad breath caused by chronic sinusitis may come back frequently because it stems from a structural abnormality in the sinuses.

    You should read product labels, and discuss all therapies with a qualified healthcare provider. Natural Standard information does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

    Halitosis is the medical name for bad breath. The foul odor may occur periodically or be persistent, depending on the cause. Some types of bad breath, including morning breath, are considered normal and are not causes for concern. This type of bad... More