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Halitosis: causes, diagnosis, and treatment
1Department of Oral Health, School of Dentistry, University of Otago, Dunedin.
The New Zealand Dental Journal
|January 16, 1999
Summary
Bad breath (halitosis) is a common concern, often originating in the mouth. While treatable by dentists, persistent cases may signal serious underlying health issues requiring medical attention.
Area of Science:
- Dentistry
- Oral Medicine
- Public Health
Background:
- Halitosis represents a significant public health concern and a large global industry.
- While the oral cavity is the source in approximately 90% of cases, halitosis can also indicate serious systemic conditions.
- General dental practitioners are equipped to diagnose and manage most oral-related halitosis cases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the prevalence and economic impact of halitosis.
- To differentiate between oral and systemic causes of halitosis.
- To emphasize the role of general dental practitioners in managing halitosis.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on halitosis aetiology.
- Analysis of diagnostic and treatment approaches for oral halitosis.
- Discussion of referral criteria for systemic conditions.
Main Results:
- The vast majority of halitosis cases (up to 90%) are localized to the oral cavity.
- Oral halitosis is generally diagnosable and treatable in a general dental practice setting.
- Certain presentations of halitosis warrant medical referral due to potential underlying systemic diseases.
Conclusions:
- Most instances of halitosis have an oral origin and can be managed by dental professionals.
- Awareness of halitosis as a potential indicator of systemic disease is crucial for timely medical referral.
- Effective management of halitosis benefits both patient well-being and public health.