The epidemiological study was undertaken in order to establish the profile of the halitosis patients cared for by Clinica Oris, dedicated to the area since 1998.
 The study is based on the following data: age range, gender, period of awareness of halitosis, awareness by intimate connections, behavioral change, and search for other professionals.

 Halitosis drastically alters the quality of life of those who suffer from it causing serious psychosocial problems.  The need for professional odontological treatment in order to not only eliminate halitosis but also promote the patient’s reintegration in society becomes evident
The sample studied was obtained in 100 clinical records selected in a simple random manner.

RESULTS

Distribution by age range

X to Y years old
Over 60

Distribution by gender
Female 41%
Male 59%

Period of awareness of halitosis
6 Months  6%
6 Months to 1 Year  9%
1 to 5 Years  27%
5 to 10 Years  11%
Over 10 Years  33%
Undetermined  14%

Has anyone ever warned you of the problem?

Previous warning
Yes 75%
No 17%
Did not answer 8%

Behavioral change
Yes 68%
No  13%
Did not answer  8%

Search for other professionals
Yes  52%
No  41%
Did not answer 7%

Professionals Searched

Gastroenterologist  35%
Otolaryngologist  25%
General Practitioner 7%
Allergist  3%
Dentist  23%
Homeopath 2%
Endocrinologist  2%
Proctologist  1%
Dermatologist  1%
Nephrologist  1%

CONCLUSION

Data analysis showed the following:
A greater prevalence of halitosis in the 21 to 50 year old age range (75%);
No significant difference was found by gender;
Over 1 year of awareness of halitosis was found in 71% of the records analyzed with 75% of the patients having been warned by near ones;
Behavioral change was observed in 68% of the cases:
52% of the patients sought out other professionals with gastroenterologists coming in first place followed by otolaryngologists and dental surgeons;

The data obtained proves that halitosis patients undergo behavioral change and seek out professionals of various areas for treatment.
It is the duty of the professional in charge of treating halitosis to not only eliminate it but to promote the patient’s social reintegration by re-establishing his self-esteem.