Related Experiment Videos
Classification and examination of halitosis.
1Department of Oral Health Science, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Japan.
International Dental Journal
|July 2, 2002
Summary
This paper classifies halitosis (bad breath) into genuine, pseudo-, and halitophobia categories. Gas chromatography is the gold standard for measuring genuine oral malodor caused by volatile sulfur compounds.
Area of Science:
- Dentistry
- Otolaryngology
- Psychology
Background:
- Halitosis, commonly known as bad breath, is a prevalent condition with significant psychosocial impact.
- Accurate classification and diagnosis are crucial for effective management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline the classification system for halitosis.
- To describe diagnostic examination procedures for halitosis.
- To differentiate between genuine halitosis, pseudo-halitosis, and halitophobia.
Main Methods:
- Classification of halitosis into genuine (physiologic, pathologic), pseudo-halitosis, and halitophobia.
- Subdivision of pathologic halitosis into oral and extraoral types.
- Diagnostic methods including organoleptic measurement and gas chromatography (GC) analysis for oral malodor.
Main Results:
- Genuine halitosis involves actual oral malodor, while pseudo-halitosis and halitophobia involve perceived malodor.
- Pseudo-halitosis is manageable by dental practitioners; halitophobia requires psychological referral.
- Gas chromatography (GC) analysis is the objective gold standard for measuring oral malodor, correlating strongly with volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs).
Conclusions:
- A clear classification system aids in differentiating halitosis types.
- Gas chromatography provides reliable and specific measurement of oral malodor, crucial for diagnosing genuine halitosis.