Prevalência da halitose, fatores fisiopatológicos associados

: uma proposta de avaliação

Abstract

Objectives: The present transversal co relational exploratory study has focused on the elaboration of a proposition of assessment of halitosis based on the measurement of the impact on the Quality of Life, focusing the main etiologic, etymological, epidemiologic factors, as well as their classification, based on a correct diagnosis, emphasizing the prevention and implementing ways which aim the treatment and avoid unnecessary exams, enhancing the cost of the disease. Material and methods: The assessment proposal was rooted on the revision of the literature, identification of the physiological and pathological variables, the pathology severity, aided by the subjective and objective assessment, within a sample selected by convenience, from a universe of 630 patients who have come to the consultation at the Clínica Dentária Universitária da Universidade Católica Portuguesa, in the month of January 2014. Results: from the 104 patients involved in this study, 67,3% were female, with an average age of 29±12,9 years old. The highest and most significant values of the sulphites’ monitoring are related to older individuals, with greater dry mouth perception, high number of hours without eating, daily ingested amount of coffee, and the number of times which they ingest liquids daily. The results of the present investigation suggest that the demographic, socio-economic and clinical variables are related to significant differences in the Quality of Life, and in the chronic cumulative complications related to halitosis. Conclusions: Halitosis presents itself with a negative impact on the patients’ Quality of Life. The correct diagnosis must include the institutionalization of an assessment proposal, particularly related to the general treatment of halitosis, in which must be included: (1) diet and oral hygiene guidance; (2) general or specific dental treatment and (3) report to other health professionals, whenever needed. It is urgent to define preventive measures on its resolution on risk patients, based on the results, aiming the implementation of action protocols.

Date of Award	2014
Original language	Portuguese
Awarding Institution	Universidade Católica Portuguesa
Supervisor	Cláudia Ribeiro (Supervisor)