Halitosis, also known as bad breath, is a condition characterized by offensive smelling breath. It can be caused by poor oral hygiene, dry mouth, gum disease, diabetes, liver or kidney diseases, and more. Risk factors include eating tobacco products, having certain foods such as onion, garlic etc., mouth and throat infections, heartburn and even cancer can lead to bad breath. The diagnosis is usually done by dental examination, and treatment is given according to the underlying cause. Complications may include low self-confidence, anxiety, depression and social embarrassment.

Do I Have A Consistent Bad Breath? (Halitosis)

A few weeks

A few months

More than 6 months

How long have you been experiencing bad breath (halitosis)?

Once a day

Twice a day

I don’t brush my teeth regularly

How often do you brush your teeth?

Yes, regularly

Do you floss your teeth regularly?

Daily 

A few times a week

How often do you use mouthwash?

Yes, frequently

Do you notice any buildup of white coating or plaque on your tongue?

Do you consume foods or drinks that are known to cause bad breath, such as garlic, onions, or coffee?

Do you experience a dry mouth or notice a lack of saliva, especially when you wake up?

Do you notice bad breath after smoking, drinking alcohol, or using tobacco products?

Do you have any chronic conditions like diabetes, gastrointestinal issues (acid reflux or GERD), or liver problems?

Yes 

Have you made any recent changes to your diet (e.g., low-carb, ketogenic)?

Symptoms: Mild offensiveness in the breath that may not occur very often.

Impact: Symptoms are manageable and may not require any medical attention.


LOW: Not Really (Low Grade)

Symptoms: Offensive smell of breath that may occur frequently and last for hours even after brushing the teeth and using mouthwash. There may be dryness of mouth and sometimes coated tongue is also visible.

Impact: Symptoms may affect the daily eating and oral hygiene habits, and some medical help may be required to know the underlying cause.


ABOVE AVERAGE: Needs attention (Moderate Grade)

Symptoms: Foul-smelling breath that lasts for a prolonged period, along with dryness of mouth, coated tongue, repetitive throat or mouth infections and a history of some underlying disease.

Impact: Symptoms may interfere with daily activities and proper medical attention is required. Immediate consultation with a healthcare professional is required for appropriate care.


HIGH: Requires medical assistance (Severe Grade)

Do I Have A Consistent Bad Breath? (Halitosis)

Brilliantly

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