Relationship of Halitosis Concern with Oral Health Behaviors and Knowledge Among Myanmar People

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this study was to access the relationship of halitosis concern with oral health behaviors and knowledge among Myanmar people. Methods: This survey was conducted on 257 samples (93 males and 164 females) with the age range from 16 to 65 years old, in Yangon, Myanmar. All the participants filled a questionnaire focusing on halitosis concern, oral health behaviors, and oral health related knowledge. The correlation between halitosis concern and demographic factors, oral health behaviors, and knowledge were analyzed. Results: 91.8% (n=236) of the sample population with the average age of 32-year-old expressed concern about halitosis, and 65.4% have encountered another person’s bad breath. The participants that reported a concern about halitosis were married people (p<0.05). There is a significant relationship between halitosis concern and oral hygiene practice such as regular toothbrushing, use of toothbrush and toothpaste, less use of any form of tobacco and high oral health knowledge (p<0.05). Conclusion: This study showed that a person who concerns halitosis had better oral hygiene behaviors and oral health knowledge than those who do not a concern. The prevalence of halitosis concern was high, and there is a need to recommend taking proper halitosis measurements by professionals and to improve public knowledge about halitosis. It is essential to support best practices and empowerment for effective self-care.