Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 8, 2026

07:33
Therapeutic Effectiveness of a Dietary Supplement for Management of Halitosis in Dogs
Published on: July 6, 2015
Halitosis among racially diverse populations: an update
1Dental Hygiene Department, Eugenio Maria De Hostos Community College of The City University of New York, New York, NY, USA.
International Journal of Dental Hygiene
|January 22, 2008
Summary
Cultural perceptions of halitosis significantly impact patient care. Dental professionals need cultural awareness to effectively manage oral malodour and improve patient well-being.
Area of Science:
- Oral health
- Public health
- Cultural studies
Background:
- Halitosis, or oral malodour, is primarily caused by tongue coating and periodontal disease, with bacterial metabolism producing volatile compounds.
- Physicians and dentists often lack adequate knowledge regarding the causes and treatments of halitosis.
- Oral malodour is a significant social health issue, potentially ranking as the third most common reason for dental visits.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine cultural perceptions of halitosis among dental professionals.
- To review the prevalence, aetiology, and social norms associated with halitosis across diverse populations.
- To emphasize the need for cultural competency in addressing halitosis.
Main Methods:
- Literature review on halitosis prevalence, aetiology, and cultural perceptions.
- Analysis of factors influencing halitosis, including dietary, smoking, and drinking habits.
- Discussion of treatment options and the role of healthcare services.
Main Results:
- Halitosis perception and its social implications vary significantly across different cultural and racial groups.
- Dental professionals require enhanced understanding of these cultural nuances for effective patient management.
- Existing knowledge gaps among healthcare providers regarding halitosis necessitate further education and awareness.
Conclusions:
- Dental professionals, particularly dental hygienists, must be culturally competent to provide optimal care.
- Integrating cultural awareness into dental education is crucial for addressing the social dilemma of halitosis.
- Improved understanding and sensitive management of halitosis can enhance patients' quality of life.
Related Concept Videos
The Oral Microbiota
The oral microbiome includes a complex ecosystem comprising over 700 microbial species, identified through genomic sequencing and culture-based analyses to date. This community includes a core microbiome, found universally among individuals, and a variable component influenced by environmental factors such as diet, lifestyle, and host genetics. Site-specific conditions, including oxygen gradients, pH levels, and nutrient availability, determine the spatial distribution of these microorganisms...
Teeth
The formation of teeth, also known as odontogenesis, is a complex process that begins in utero, around the sixth week of embryonic development. There are three stages to this process: the bud stage, the cap stage, and the bell stage.
In the bud stage, the tooth germ (an aggregation of cells) starts to form in the developing jawbone. During the cap stage, the tooth germ differentiates into enamel organ, dental papilla, and dental sac, which will later develop into the tooth's enamel, dentin and...
In the bud stage, the tooth germ (an aggregation of cells) starts to form in the developing jawbone. During the cap stage, the tooth germ differentiates into enamel organ, dental papilla, and dental sac, which will later develop into the tooth's enamel, dentin and...
Assessment of the Mouth
A thorough mouth assessment, including inspection and palpation of the lips, gums, tongue, tonsils, uvula, and pharynx, is crucial in detecting potential health issues. Diseases ranging from oral cancer to systemic conditions like diabetes could be identified early through careful oral examination. This article provides a detailed guide on conducting a comprehensive mouth assessment.
Mouth Inspection
The inspection begins with visually examining the mouth for symmetry, color, and size.
Mouth Inspection
The inspection begins with visually examining the mouth for symmetry, color, and size.
Development of the Oral Microbiota
The establishment of the oral microbiome begins before birth, challenging the long-held belief that the fetal oral cavity is sterile. The presence of oral microbes such as Streptococcus and Fusobacterium in amniotic fluid suggests that microbial exposure may occur in utero, potentially through translocation from the maternal oral or gastrointestinal tract. This early colonization primes the neonatal immune system and sets the stage for subsequent microbial succession. Maternal health,...
Stereotypes, Prejudice, and Discrimination
Humans are very diverse and although we share many similarities, we also have many differences. The social groups we belong to help form our identities (Tajfel, 1974). These differences may be difficult for some people to reconcile, which may lead to prejudice toward people who are different. Prejudice is a negative attitude and feeling toward an individual based solely on one’s membership in a particular social group (Allport, 1954; Brown, 2010). Prejudice is common against people who are...
Microbiota of the Respiratory Tract
The human respiratory tract, comprising the upper and lower segments, serves as a critical interface with the external environment. The upper respiratory tract (URT)—including the nostrils, sinuses, pharynx, and oropharynx—is heavily colonized by microbes, while the lower respiratory tract (LRT), composed of the larynx, trachea, bronchi, and lungs, was long thought to be sterile. However, recent molecular studies have revealed that the lungs are not devoid of microbes but act more like...
