Bad Breath (Halitosis)

While bad breath might be a symptom of some other disorder, it most likely stems from dental decay and periodontitis.

Periodontitis is a disease affecting the gums and bone that support the teeth, and it results from inadequate tooth brushing and flossing. In this disease, the irritated gums pull away from the teeth and form pockets between the teeth and the gums. These pockets fill with bacteria and pus which give off a foul odor.

Patients with bad breath need a complete dental evaluation. If gum disease and/or dental decay is diagnosed, it can be treated readily. The patient will no longer have an infection in his or her mouth — and no longer the embarrassment of bad breath.

Related reading: Gum disease care · Gum disease: 80% of adults · Silent gum disease