Success in one’s personal and professional life is often driven by confidence, which in turn tends to be influenced by one’s self-esteem. However, confidence-spurring self-esteem can be compromised by one’s self-image, particularly over concerns about their smile. As noted, 17th-century naturalist John Ray said, “Beauty is power; a smile its sword.”
More than 54,000 Americans are diagnosed with oral cavity and oropharyngeal cancers yearly, and over 11,500 die from the disease, according to the latest American Cancer Society (ACS) data. With a lifetime risk of developing oral cancer at about one in 60 for men and one in 141 for women, you’re much more likely to experience gum disease or other oral health concerns than oral cancer. Still, you do not want to risk becoming an American Cancer Society statistic.
If someone were to tell you that you have “fetor oris,” you’d probably react by saying, “What?” On the other hand, if someone tells you that you have “halitosis,” you’d probably understand what they are saying but perhaps not know how to respond to the somewhat embarrassing declaration. If you’re not familiar with either term, know that both refer to bad breath, which is certainly something that no one wants to have but that everyone experiences on occasion.