Knowledge, Self-Perception, Attitude of Halitosis Among Students in Chengalpet: A Questionnaire Study

Abstract

Aim: To measure self-perception, knowledge, and awareness of halitosis among students studying in Karpaga Vinayaga educational groups Materials and Methods: In this study, total of 240 participants who are students of Karpaga Vinayaga educational group were recruited. A questionnaire was created online using Google Forms, and the link was sent to the participants through different social media platforms such as WhatsApp and Emails. Their responses were recorded. Result: A widespread issue that affects people all over the world, halitosis or bad breath, has social and psychological as well as medical repercussions. There is ample evidence that halitosis is common everywhere in the world. Our study found that the self-perception of poor breath is significantly influenced by age. Most of the respondents in our study did not report to dentist for having bad breath. Instead, they tried to solve by using chewing gums, mouth wash and sweets. This gave us the conclusion that they lack knowledge about the cause and management plan. Conclusion: Oral malodour is generally poorly understood in all of its facets. Therefore, it is important to promote increased public awareness and education. To lessen this issue, regular visits to dentists and other healthcare providers should be promoted. It should be stressed that dentists have a responsibility to educate and advise their patients about oral malodour, and dental students should receive enough training in handling this problem by organising dental camps, lectures should be provided to students so as to improve knowledge about halitosis14 Keywords: Halitosis, Awareness, Self-perception, Bad breath, Oral Malodor