Halitosis

Halitosis is persistent bad breath, that is, an unpleasant odor in the breath that does not go away with usual hygiene. It can be occasional or persist over time, and it often originates in the mouth.

Common causes: the buildup of bacteria on the tongue and teeth, gum disease, dry mouth, and certain foods are frequent factors; at times it is related to digestive or respiratory tract problems.

When to seek guidance? An evaluation is advisable when bad breath is constant and does not improve with oral care, since it may reflect a cause worth identifying.

Who evaluates it? The dentist checks the oral origin of the problem; when another cause is suspected, the otolaryngologist or the gastroenterologist may step in. If bad breath worries you or affects your day-to-day life, discussing it with a professional will help you find its origin.