Halitosis, or most commonly
bad breath are terms used to describe noticeably unpleasant odors exhaled in breathing – whether the smell is from an oral source due to bacteria or otherwise.
Halitosis has a significant impact – personally and socially – on those who suffer from it or believe they do, and is estimated to be the third most frequent reason for seeking dental aid, following tooth decay and periodontal disease. Loesche WJ, Kazor C. Microbiology and treatment of halitosis.
Periodontology 2000. 2002;28:256-79. PMID 12013345.
In most cases, bad breath originates in the mouth itself. Rosenberg M. The science of bad breath....
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