A review of knowledge, diagnosis and treatment of halitosis among nigerian dentists- a pilot study

Background: Halitosis is an unpleasant or offensive odour emanating from the breath. The aim of this study is to determine the depth of knowledge of diagnosis and management of halitosis among Nigerian dentists. Methods: A self administered questionnaire was designed and circulated among 80 dentists practicing in Nigeria. We assessed the knowledge of the diagnosis of halitosis, the success rate of treatment, limitations and comments on adverse effects of halitosis. Results: The Nigerian dentists assessed were categorized into 3 groups namely A,B and C according to the number of years of clinical experience. Group A dentists are 38(47.5%) of the total, their perception of the aetiology of halitosis was poor oral hygiene in 10.1%, caries and periodontal diseases in 27%, psychogenic causes 29.7% and causes from systemic diseases 32.4%. 47(58.5%) dentists carried out various investigations in the diagnosis of halitosis. Majority agreed that psychological factors did play a role in the aetiology of halitosis. Conclusion: The study reviewed the knowledge, diagnostic methods, perception of adverse effects of halitosis among Nigerian dentists and reasons for limitation of successful treatment.