Halitosis, what experiences and methods apply Dutch dental hygienists

The aim of this research is to gain more insight in the methods and experiences of dental hygienists in the Netherlands regarding the treatment of patients with halitosis.

A total of 92 dental hygienists completed the questionnaire (consisting of 19 questions on personal and professional characteristics, clinical observation and treatment of halitosis, the referral of patients with halitosis, the presence and usefulness of a protocol). The questionnaire was distributed using a social media platform for dental professionals in oral health care from all over the Netherlands.

83.4% of 90 dental hygienists had paid attention to the patient's breath but only 37.8% of dental hygienists always informed the patient. Reasons for not informing patients were the fear of the patient's possible reaction or because other oral health problems were more important. Of the included dental hygienists 67.8% had never referred a patient for treatment of halitosis. 86.7% of the dental hygienists stated there was no protocol for diagnosis and treatment of patients with halitosis. However, 90.0% of the dental hygienists acknowledged a protocol would be useful.

The majority of the dental hygienists in the Netherlands had paid attention to the patient's breath, but only a small group of dental hygienists informed their patients about halitosis. In dental practices halitosis is an underestimated problem. During the coronavirus pandemic people are more aware with the smell of their breath. Dental hygienists indicated scaling and root planning and/or providing information and instruction by patients with a bad breath.