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BackgroundHalitosis or oral malodor is defined as an unpleasant breath odor. It can become a serious problem affecting individuals’ social communication and self-confidence. Furthermore, it is a discomforting issue for the people around the person affected, because they consider it embarrassing to inform the person of the problem.AimThis study was designed to measure self-perception, knowledge, and awareness of halitosis among female university students in Saudi Arabia.Materials and methodsA cross-sectional survey was implemented with 392 volunteer participants who responded to a questionnaire on their self-perception, knowledge, and awareness of halitosis.ResultsThe response rate was 89.1% (392/440). Self-perception of halitosis was low (21.4%), whereas a larger percentage (78.1%) indicated noticing people with bad breath. Most participants (80.4%) thought that the gastrointestinal tract is the primary source of halitosis. Seventy-seven percent preferred using personal methods such as mouthwash and chewing gum to treat oral malodor. According to 82.1% of respondents, a dentist is the most appropriate professional to treat halitosis.ConclusionThe investigation revealed low self-perception and limited knowledge regarding halitosis. Therefore, the role of dentists in informing and educating their patients concerning oral malodor should be enhanced. Public education about the causes of and possible ways of managing bad breath should be increased.

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Objective The aim of this study is to investigate the public’s attitudes and knowledge toward chairside dental screening and laboratory investigations based on demographic data. Methods A self-administered structured questionnaire regarding chairside screening was designed employing a 5-point Likert-type scale. The questionnaire was distributed to among sample of adults. Data were collected and statistically analyzed using descriptive statistics, t -tests, ANOVA, and P values. Results A total of 573 questionnaires were completed. Most respondents were willing to have a dentist conduct screening for diseases, in particular blood measurement (89%), hypertension (85.7%) and lab result discussion (83.1%), having medical condition did not affect the willingness. The lowest reported willingness was to undergo biopsy (54%) and hepatitis screening (67.6%) Age, education, hospital, and prior chairside screening were found to be significant factors for willingness. Conclusion The population’s willingness to undergo chairside medical screenings in the dental office is crucial for the implementation of this strategy and to deliver a holistic approach to treating patients’ medical conditions.

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