Evaluation of the psychogenic character of halitosis

Abstract

Introduction: The halitosis is a breath condition in which it is altered in an unpleasant way for both the patient and the people with whom he/she relates, meaning a pathologic condition or not. It is also known as fetid breath, mouth stench, bad breath or bad mouth odor. The problem regarding the oral odors have always constituted a worrying factor to the society, and nowadays is still present. The aim of this research was to evaluate the psychogenic character of halitosis in patients assisted at the Integrated Clinic of the Department of Dentistry of Universidade Estadual da Paraíba (UEPB). Methodology: the methods used for this purpose included: interview, filling out an appropriate clinical form, and the check of the halitosis degree, through the use of the Breath Alert device. Results: 41,7% of patients who had a mild odor in the breath did not have self-perception of halitosis, and 40% of those who showed a moderated odor did not notice the odor of his/her breath, however 54% of respondents who did not present breath odor believed to have halitosis. Conclusion: It seems that, in fact, there is a psychogenic character of halitosis, considering the occurrence of its perception among individuals without this condition. And, in the other way around, the true halitosis is often not noticed, probably due to an olfactory fatigue.