Halitosis: Current concepts on etiology, diagnosis and management

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Primary Care Medicine
• Psychosocial Health

Background:

• Halitosis (oral malodor) is a common condition causing significant psychosocial distress.
• Patients frequently seek diagnosis and management from primary care practitioners.
• Effective treatment requires accurate diagnosis and identification of the underlying etiology.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a systematic approach for primary care practitioners to manage halitosis.
• To emphasize the importance of an interdisciplinary approach in halitosis treatment.
• To address the scarcity of high-quality research, particularly randomized clinical trials, in halitosis management.

Main Methods:

• The article proposes a structured diagnostic and management flow for primary care.
• It highlights the necessity of identifying the specific cause of halitosis.
• Referral pathways and individualized therapeutic strategies are discussed.

Main Results:

• A systematic approach can lead to successful individualized therapeutic plans.
• An interdisciplinary method is crucial to prevent misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatment.
• Further research, including randomized clinical trials, is needed to advance the field.

Conclusions:

• Primary care practitioners play a vital role in the initial management of halitosis.
• A structured, interdisciplinary approach ensures optimal patient outcomes.
• Continued research is essential for evidence-based halitosis treatment protocols.