Oral malodour and its clinical management

Abstract

Oral malodour or halitosis is one of the most common complaints by dental patients. It often creates serious personal and social embarrassment for the afflicted individual. Dental health care workers can play a pivotal role in helping these patients by eliminating dental diseases and improving oral hygiene. This paper reviews the current understanding in the microbiology and aetiology of oral malodour and presents a clinical management strategy, which is both rational and effective.