Oral malodor has been recognized in the literature since ancient times. However, in the last 5 to 6 years, it has come to the forefront of public and dental professional awareness. Oral malodor is caused mainly by facultative bacteria on the tongue that produce volatile organic compounds. Traditional assessment methods include organoleptic measurements and gas chromatography. Newer techniques make diagnosis more convenient, and the electronic nose is in the early stages of development. After assessment, active practices of using proper oral hygiene products and making small lifestyle changes can reduce the amount of oral malodor significantly for an individual. Understanding causes, assessment, and treatment of oral malodor can help dental professionals find ways to decrease its prevalence and increase their patients’ well-being.
More than 50% of the general population has oral malodor,1 commonly known as “bad breath.” Present-day research has shown sulfur-producing anaerobic bacteria on the tongue form certain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that produce unpleasant odors in the mouth. Numerous methods are used for assessing oral malodor severity. Traditional oral malodor assessment methods include organoleptic measurements and gas chromatography, while advanced technology has given rise to machines that make diagnosing oral malodor in dental clinics more convenient.
Diagnosis is only the first step in treatment. On consultation by dental professionals, patients must take further action to control and manage oral malodor in their daily lives. They can accomplish this either mechanically or chemically. Each case is treated differently, depending on its origin. By having a holistic grasp of where oral malodor originates and how to analyze and treat it, future dental products can be made to better cater to these patients. The consequences of having oral malodor are twofold. Oral malodor not only makes the individual feel uncomfortable in public places but also can be an indication of the individual’s overall well-being. Thus, careful analysis of oral malodor can be used as an approach in diagnosing systemic diseases and understanding how lifestyle habits affect oral health.
More than 50% of the general population has oral malodor,1 commonly known as “bad breath.” Present-day research has shown sulfur-producing anaerobic bacteria on the tongue form certain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that produce unpleasant odors in the mouth. Numerous methods are used for assessing oral malodor severity. Traditional oral malodor assessment methods include organoleptic measurements and gas chromatography, while advanced technology has given rise to machines that make diagnosing oral malodor in dental clinics more convenient.
Diagnosis is only the first step in treatment. On consultation by dental professionals, patients must take further action to control and manage oral malodor in their daily lives. They can accomplish this either mechanically or chemically. Each case is treated differently, depending on its origin. By having a holistic grasp of where oral malodor originates and how to analyze and treat it, future dental products can be made to better cater to these patients. The consequences of having oral malodor are twofold. Oral malodor not only makes the individual feel uncomfortable in public places but also can be an indication of the individual’s overall well-being. Thus, careful analysis of oral malodor can be used as an approach in diagnosing systemic diseases and understanding how lifestyle habits affect oral health.
