Halitosis: an etiologic classification, a treatment approach, and prevention.

Halitosis, a condition that causes a severe social handicap to those who suffer from it, has a multifactorial etiology. Since patients with this condition seek professional consultation from dentists much more frequently than from physicians, dentists, who treat diseases of the oral cavity, should have an understanding of the local as well as the systemic factors which cause halitosis. This article presents an extensive review of the information available, with an etiologic classification of this condition to help clinicians develop the diagnostic acumen to distinguish one type of halitosis from another. Once the etiology of this condition is ascertained for the patient who suffers from it, treatment can be readily rendered.