The association of periodontal disease with oral malodour in a Japanese population

Oral Diseases (2010) 16, 702–706 Aim:  The purpose of this study was to evaluate the association between oral malodour and periodontal disease, and to determine the effect of periodontal therapy on oral malodour. Materials and Methods:  Oral malodour parameters, including volatile sulphur compound (VCS) measurement, methyl mercaptan/hydrogen sulphide ratio by gas chromatography, organoleptic testing, tongue coating score, and periodontal parameters were evaluated in 823 patients complaining of oral malodour. Amongst these patients, 89 with oral pathogenic halitosis received tongue cleaning and periodontal therapy. Oral malodour and periodontal parameters were measured at baseline and after treatment. Results:  Amongst 823 patients, 102 were diagnosed with gingivitis and 721 with periodontitis. VCS levels and periodontal parameters increased according to the severity of oral malodour. Organoleptic testing significantly correlated with periodontal probing depth and a percentage of periodontal pocket depth ≥4 mm (r = 0.40 and 0.39 respectively). There were significant correlations between methyl mercaptan/hydrogen sulphide ratio and periodontal parameters. Significant decrease in oral malodour and periodontal parameters in 89 patients with oral pathogenic halitosis was also observed after periodontal treatment. Conclusions:  Oral malodour is associated with periodontal disease, and periodontal therapy combined with tongue cleaning is beneficial for oral pathogenic halitosis.