Bad breath (halitosis) is a condition that many people experience occasionally, but in some cases it can become persistent and affect social confidence. Temporary bad breath may be related to oral hygiene or certain foods, whereas chronic halitosis is often linked to underlying oral health problems.

At Dentopol, bad breath evaluation in Istanbul includes clinical examination, intraoral analysis and radiological imaging when required. At our Maltepe and Ümraniye clinics, the aim is to identify the true source of the odour and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

For patients living in Europe or the UK, the evaluation process can often begin before travelling. Existing X-rays can be reviewed remotely, or patients may attend a free consultation at our Hanau clinic in Germany to meet our dental specialists.

If you have been experiencing persistent bad breath, early assessment can help identify the cause more quickly.

What Causes Bad Breath?

The most common causes of bad breath originate inside the mouth, although systemic factors may also contribute in some cases.

Oral Causes

• Gum disease
• Tartar build-up
• Bacterial plaque on the tongue surface
• Tooth decay
• Poor oral hygiene
• Poorly fitted dental restorations

Non-Oral (Systemic) Causes

• Upper respiratory infections
• Sinusitis
• Gastrointestinal conditions
• Certain systemic diseases

To treat halitosis effectively, the underlying cause must first be correctly identified.

What Is Chronic Halitosis?

Temporary bad breath may occur in the morning, during fasting or after consuming certain foods. It usually resolves within a short time.

Chronic halitosis, however, persists despite regular oral hygiene and is often related to an underlying dental or medical condition. In such cases, a comprehensive dental assessment is recommended.

Treatment Approach for Bad Breath

Treatment depends on the underlying cause of the halitosis. Possible approaches include:

• professional scale and clean
• gum disease treatment
• restoration of decayed teeth
• tongue surface cleaning
• improvement of oral hygiene routines

When systemic causes are involved, treatment may be coordinated with relevant medical specialists.

A halitosis assessment may be recommended for individuals who: