Evaluation of Shiraz Dentist's Knowledge of Causes and Treatments Methods of Halitosis in 2015

Halitosis is an unpleasant odor, smelled from one’s breath. This condition is in fact a widespread problem in the society. Halitosis can be due to several reasons. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate Shiraz dentists’ knowledge of diagnosis and management of halitosis.
A researcher-made questionnaire was distributed among 70 dentists, randomly selected from all the dentists in Shiraz, Iran. The research questionnaire consisted of 13 questions evaluating the knowledge of dentists of the causes (four items), diagnostic methods (five items) and treatment methods (four items) of halitosis.
Among the participants, 47.1% were male and 52.9% were female. Total mean knowledge score of the subjects was estimated at 10.56±1.92. In terms of causes of halitosis, mean knowledge score was 4.61±1.10, while it was 3.0±37.67 and 2.57±0.67 regarding the diagnostic and treatment methods of the mentioned condition, respectively. According to the results, a significant reverse correlation was observed between mean knowledge score of the subjects and variables of age and experience.
In the present study, dentists’ knowledge of causes of halitosis, as well as diagnostic and treatment methods in this regard were evaluated, and the results were indicative of proper knowledge of dentists.