Manejo de pacientes com halitose atendidos no serviço público de saúde

Halitosis is characterized by a foul odor emanating from the oral cavity. This condition is considered an embarrassing symptom with a significant social impact for the individual. The aim of this study was to evaluate the knowledge of professionals working on public health service about halitosis and to examine the criteria for referrals of suspected cases. This study had the participation of 37 health professionals including medical doctors and dentists. All participants answered a questionnaire about the etiology, management and treatment of halitosis. Among all the professionals analyzed 92% (n = 34) reported receiving patients complaining of halitosis. 88% (n = 22) of dentists and 50% (n = 06) of medical doctors believe that the main cause of halitosis has an oral origin. 89.1% (n = 33) of samples reported performing the treatment of halitosis. In addition, the complementary exam most requested for the diagnosis of halitosis was the radiograph of the face. The results suggest that there is a mistake in the management of patients with halitosis attended in the public health service. This study brings to light the need to educate and train medical doctors and dentists about the etiological factors, forms of diagnosis and treatment of halitosis.