Bin Mubayrik A, Al Hamdan R, Al Hadlaq EM, AlBagieh H, AlAhmed D, Jaddoh H, Demyati M, Abu Shryei R. Self-perception, knowledge, and awareness of halitosis among female university students.
Clin Cosmet Investig Dent 2017;
9:45-52. [PMID:
28603430 PMCID:
PMC5457280 DOI:
10.2147/ccide.s129679]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background
Halitosis or oral malodor is defined as an unpleasant breath odor. It can become a serious problem affecting individuals’ social communication and self-confidence. Furthermore, it is a discomforting issue for the people around the person affected, because they consider it embarrassing to inform the person of the problem.
Aim
This study was designed to measure self-perception, knowledge, and awareness of halitosis among female university students in Saudi Arabia.
Materials and methods
A cross-sectional survey was implemented with 392 volunteer participants who responded to a questionnaire on their self-perception, knowledge, and awareness of halitosis.
Results
The response rate was 89.1% (392/440). Self-perception of halitosis was low (21.4%), whereas a larger percentage (78.1%) indicated noticing people with bad breath. Most participants (80.4%) thought that the gastrointestinal tract is the primary source of halitosis. Seventy-seven percent preferred using personal methods such as mouthwash and chewing gum to treat oral malodor. According to 82.1% of respondents, a dentist is the most appropriate professional to treat halitosis.
Conclusion
The investigation revealed low self-perception and limited knowledge regarding halitosis. Therefore, the role of dentists in informing and educating their patients concerning oral malodor should be enhanced. Public education about the causes of and possible ways of managing bad breath should be increased.
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