Abstract
The aim of this study is to analyze the characteristics of patients suffering from malodor using organoleptic rating and questionnaires. Patients who were examined for halitosis at the Clinic of Preventive Dentistry, Tokushima University Medical and Dental Hospital, were classified into 4 groups based on the results of organoleptic measurement using plastic air bag. Aa group; obvious malodor beyond a socially acceptable level is neither perceived by dentists nor the patient. Ab group; obvious malodor is not perceived by dentists, although the patient complains of its existence. Ba group; obvious malodor is perceived by dentists only. Bb group; obvious malodor is perceived by both dentists and the patient. The profile of the Cornell Medical Index (CMI) Health Questionnaire and the questionnaire about a general attitudes toward halitosis were analyzed in each category. Patients in Ab group, who are supposed to have psychosomatic halitosis, showed a stronger tendency toward neurosis. More patients in the Ab group responded in the questionnaire that "I'm always anxious about malodor", and that "I feel malodor stronger than before", than in the other groups. Furthermore, patients in Aa and Ab group seemed to be interested in oral hygiene since many patients in these groups habitually used inter-dental brushing instruments daily. These results suggest that the sell-evaluation of breath by patients might provide useful information about the psychological conditions of patients.
