A simple method to reduce halitosis; tongue scraping with probiotics

Area of Science:

• Oral microbiology
• Periodontology
• Halitosis research

Background:

• Halitosis, or bad breath, is a common condition often linked to bacterial overgrowth on the tongue.
• Current treatments like tongue scraping and mouthwashes offer temporary relief.
• Probiotics are increasingly explored for their potential in managing oral health conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of probiotic implantation on the tongue's dorsum for treating halitosis.
• To compare this method with traditional tongue scraping and mouthwash alone.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial involving 100 participants divided into three groups: tongue scraping (TS), probiotic implantation (PB), and mouthwash (MW).
• Measurements of halitosis using Halimeter, Winkel, and Woodlight scores were taken before treatment, after one month, and one month post-treatment.
• Probiotic implantation was performed using a novel technique involving tongue scraping.

Main Results:

• Mouthwash alone (MW) showed no significant effect on halitosis.
• Tongue scraping (TS) led to a significant reduction in halitosis after one month, but levels increased post-treatment.
• Probiotic implantation (PB) resulted in a significant decrease in halitosis after one month, with sustained low levels after treatment cessation.

Conclusions:

• Probiotic implantation on the tongue is an effective and lasting treatment for halitosis.
• Combining probiotic implantation with tongue scraping offers a novel and superior approach compared to conventional methods.
• This method demonstrates potential for long-term halitosis management without recurrence.