Halitosis and its influence on the quality of life

Abstract

Objectives: To describe the patients' perception of their own breath and verify that halitosis can lead to loss of quality of life of patients with this condition. Methods: A consecutive sample was formed from patients who sought treatment at the Dentistry Screening Service of FSG Centro Universitário, between the months of August 2015 and September 2015, where they answered a questionnaire with objective questions about their perception of breath, and attitudes related to social situations where the breath can be influential. Results: Participated in this survey a total of 102 patients. Of these, 27 (26.5%) were male and 75 (73.5%) were female. When asked about the importance and concern for their breath, 95 (94.1%) participants reported that the smell of breath has great importance in their lives and 96 of these patients (95%) have a high concern for the own breath. Conclusion: On patients' perceptions, halitosis affects the quality of life of people. However, other studies should be conducted in order to evaluate the influence of halitosis in the quality of life of patients with this condition.

Descriptors: Halitosis; Quality of Life; Health Education.

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