Background: Oral malodor, a generic descriptor term for foul smells emanating from the mouth can be classified as either pathological or physiological halitosis. Some problems are often confounded by the climcian's mismanagement.Objective: This paper reviews the etiology of classification and determination of treatment needs (TN) for oral malodor.Literature review and discussion: In the majority of cases the problem has been shown to originate in the oral cavity. Although oral malodor cases are often telated to physiological aspects, sometimes they can be related to extra oral sources and psychological aspects. Classification methods of oral malodor with corresponding treatment needs (TN) have already been established. Although PTC & tongue brushing and appropriate mouthrinses are both important and basic treatment measures for halitosis, other dental treatments are sometimes required.Conclusion: Accurate screening and diagnosis of halitosis followed by appropriate TN may give better results and consequently reduce the risk of mismanagement.