Halitosis is a medical and psychosocial disorder. Over 90% of halitosis cases are associated with the occurrence of disorders in the oral cavity. The volatile sulfur compounds (VSC) responsible for bad breath are exhaled from the mouth. The main etiological factors are bacteria often found in periodontal diseases and those closely related to the sediment on the dorsal part of the tongue. Many methods of treating this problem have been created. Further research focused on understanding the causes, methods of prevention and treatment of bad breath is necessary.

Key words: halitosis, fetor ex ore, volatile sulfur compounds.