Halitosis Quiz

Ninety percent of halitosis cases originate from the oral cavity.

Halitosis can be categorized as Physiologic (normal) and Pathologic (disease-related).

A fear of others noticing bad breath.

A recent classification divides pathological halitosis into 6 types.

Organoleptic measurements (how bad it smells) are the gold standard for measuring halitosis.

Xerostomia, tonsillitis, cleft palate, ANUG, dry socket, and orthodontic appliances can cause bad breath.

Diabetic ketoacidosis, alcohol, gastric reflux, and sinusitis can cause bad breath.

Dental hygienists can treat halitosis by improving oral hygiene, managing periodontal conditions, applying fluoride, using chlorhexidine, and advising about xerostomia, smoking, alcohol and diet.

Volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs) are the main compounds responsible for bad breath within the mouth.

Referrals are needed for halitophobia, suspicious lesions, persistent halitosis after oral care, and when the issue is beyond the hygienist's scope.

Ninety percent of bad breath cases originate from the mouth.

Bad breath is categorized as physiologic (normal) and pathologic (disease-related).

Fear of others noticing bad breath.

Pathological halitosis types are now categorized into six types in a revised classification.

The best way to measure bad breath is through smell assessment (organoleptic).

Dry mouth, gum disease, abscesses, and appliances can cause bad breath coming from inside the mouth.

Diabetes, alcohol, and digestive problems can cause bad breath that is not from the mouth.

Dental hygienists can treat bad breath by improving oral hygiene, managing gums, and offering advice about habits and diet.

Volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs) are the main molecules causing bad breath originating from the mouth.

Refer a patient if bad breath persists after oral treatment, there is a suspicious lesion, or the cause is beyond the hygienist's scope.