Clinical parameters in patients with halitosis: a cross-sectional study

Area of Science:

• Oral Health
• Endocrinology
• Psychosomatic Medicine

Background:

• Halitosis is a common condition with significant psychosocial impact, influenced by factors including aging, oral hygiene, and diet.
• Investigating the link between halitosis and stress is crucial for understanding its multifactorial nature.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the association between halitosis and stress levels.
• To measure salivary cortisol and perceived stress using the Cohen's Perceived Stress Scale (CPSS) in relation to halitosis.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving 40 participants assessed halitosis using a Halimeter and self-assessment.
• Salivary cortisol levels were measured via ELISA, and stress was evaluated using the CPSS-10 questionnaire.
• Oral hygiene was assessed through Plaque Index (PI) and Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth (DMFT) scores.

Main Results:

• Halitosis was significantly correlated with higher DMFT scores (p=0.018) and increased plaque accumulation (p<0.05).
• No significant correlation was found between halitosis (Halimeter scores) and salivary cortisol levels or CPSS scores.
• A moderate negative correlation was observed between perceived stress and plaque index (r=-0.403, p=0.011).

Conclusions:

• Salivary cortisol and perceived stress do not appear to be direct contributors to halitosis.
• Poor oral hygiene, evidenced by higher DMFT scores and plaque, is a more significant factor in halitosis development than stress.
• Further research may explore other stress biomarkers or psychological factors influencing halitosis.