Vol. 5, Issue 4, Part A (2019)

Abstract: Halitosis is an unpleasant offensive odor that originates from oral cavity. It is a common social problem, one in every four people suffers from halitosis and is reported as the third most common reason that people seek dental care. The origin can be either intra-oral or extra-oral, with 90% of etiology being intraoral, which is caused by microbial degradation of organic substrates in food debris. Major constituent for malodor is volatile sulphur containing compounds. Research in this area has lead to the development of advanced diagnostic instruments for detection and measurement of halitosis. This review focuses on current strategies for the management of halitosis. Their effectiveness and significance are discussed and presented here. Mechanical reduction of bacterial load by maintaining oral hygiene is found to be more efficient. Short term good results were reported by using oral rinses with chemical agents such as chlorohexidine and others. Non surgical periodontal therapy as well as photodynamic therapy and laser treatment results in significant reduction of organoleptic score.