Data from halitosis clinics around the world reveal that the primary source for oral malodor is bacterial tongue coating. Thus, oral hygiene measures including tongue cleaning, and the use of antiseptic agents can help patients to manage their problem. However, the underlying cause for the development of tongue coating also has to be considered, and therefore a proper diagnosis should always include the source of the odorants and the potential cause for their presence. The first step in the diagnostic procedure of halitosis is to distinguish between persons with and without malodor. In case of the presence of an odor, the second step is to detect the source of it. Several organoleptic techniques and the use of sulfide monitors have been recommended for that purpose. However, both the instrumental and the organoleptic measures require a certain amount of training and experience and might overburden a general dental practitioner without particular training in diagnosis of halitosis. Therefore, we recommend the implementation of a very simple organoleptic scale for the dental practice, which is based on the idea to judge the intensity of oral malodor by the distance between the patient and the investigator. Data reveal that the scale delivers reproducible results and might be recommended for the general dental practitioner. |
