Self-Perceived Oral Malodour Among Periodontal Patients Prevalence and Associated Factors

Self-Perceived Oral Malodour Among Periodontal Patients:

One of the most common dental consultations is perceived oral malodour that suggests that thorough evaluation of oral malodour in dentistry. Generally, oral malodour is considered as a widespread, horrible, medical condition that is characterized with emergence of unpleasant odour from the mouth because of gram-negative anaerobic bacterial putrefaction of proteinaceous substrates containing sulfur. According to Azodo & Umoh (2013), oral malodour is basically caused by hydrogen sulfide, dimethyl sulfide, volatile sulfur compounds, and methyl mercaptan (p.125). These elements have also been associated with the pathogenesis of periodontal disease because of their toxicity to oral tissues.

Based on this background, the authors agree that oral malodour is a huge concern to the general population since it has unfavorable consequences on both the private and professional life. Therefore, it's a significant health issue with negative effects on the quality of life, especially with regards to social interactions. This assumption is supported by the tendency by people with oral malodour to exhibit low self-esteem, suffer depression and other mood depression. As a result, these individuals experience barriers between them and their families, friends, and co-workers due to their relatively offensive mouth air.

Azodo & Umoh (2013) have carried out a research to determine the prevalence and associated factors of self-perceived oral malodour among periodontal patients. The research is conducted on a sample of 490 consenting patients attending a Nigerian periodontology clinic that offers tertiary healthcare. In a study that was conducted in a five-month period, the study utilized descriptive statistics, logistic regression, and chi-square statistics as means of data analyses. The research process also involved the use of other data analyses methods that were regarded as statistically significant.

The researchers delivered self-administered questionnaires to participants in the waiting area in the Periodontology Clinic and collected prior to consultation and care at the facility. The self-developed questionnaire was basically geared towards evaluating self-perceived oral malodour, dental visit, dental complaints and status, perceived periodontal health, and oral self-care. Notably, participation by patients in the clinic was voluntary and did not seek to influence the quality and timing of periodontal care receipt in any manner.

The authors provided credible research findings because their study focused on different areas that would help in determining the prevalence and associated factors of self-perceived oral malodour among periodontal patients. Some of the major factors they considered include the participants' demographic characteristics, their oral health behavior, and their perception, beliefs and knowledge about gingivodental health. Azodo & Umoh also addressed participant' concerns and satisfaction concerning oral health, their self reported oral health problems, and their views of factors causing perceived oral malodour.