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The relationship between alcohol consumption and oral malodour
Nao Suzuki1, Masahiro Yoneda, Toru Naito
1Department of General Dentistry, Department of General Dentistry, Fukuoka Dental College, Tamura, Sawara-ku, Fukuoka, Japan. naojsz@college.fdcnet.ac.jp
International Dental Journal
|March 28, 2009
Summary
Daily alcohol consumption is linked to increased oral malodour and periodontal disease. This study highlights a significant association between regular drinking habits and bad breath, particularly in those with deeper periodontal pockets.
Area of Science:
- Oral health research
- Periodontology
- Toxicology of alcohol
Background:
- Oral malodour (bad breath) is a common complaint with multifactorial causes.
- Alcohol consumption is a widespread habit with potential oral health implications.
- Understanding the link between alcohol and oral malodour is crucial for public health and clinical practice.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between alcohol consumption patterns and the presence/severity of oral malodour.
- To quantify volatile sulphur compounds (VSCs) in relation to alcohol intake.
- To explore associations between drinking habits and clinical indicators of periodontal disease.
Main Methods:
- Utilized an organoleptic test (OLT) to assess oral malodour.
- Employed gas chromatography to measure VSCs.
- Administered questionnaires to determine alcohol consumption habits in 235 individuals complaining of oral malodour.
Main Results:
- Daily alcohol consumers showed significantly higher rates of strong malodour (30.9%) compared to occasional or non-consumers (p < 0.01).
- The daily alcohol group exhibited elevated VSC concentrations (p < 0.05).
- Daily drinking was positively associated with periodontal pockets of 5 mm or deeper (p < 0.01).
Conclusions:
- Daily alcohol consumption is significantly associated with increased oral malodour.
- Periodontal disease appears to be a key factor mediating the relationship between alcohol and bad breath.
- Findings suggest that reducing daily alcohol intake may benefit oral hygiene and reduce malodour.
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