Treatment of Halitosis With Photodynamic Therapy in Older Patients

Halitosis is the term used to define an unpleasant odor emanating from the mouth. Some lung diseases, such as bronchiectasis, are among the extra-oral causes of this condition. However, no studies have evaluated the causes and treatment of halitosis in the population of older adults with bronchiectasis. Methods and analysis: A randomized, controlled trial is proposed. The patients will be divided into four groups: G1- healthy older adults with 10 teeth or more (n = 40); G2- healthy older adults who wear complete dentures (n = 40); G3- older adults with bronchiectasis and 10 teeth or more (n = 40); and G4- older adults with bronchiectasis who wear complete dentures (n = 40). Halitosis will be evaluated based on the measurement of volatile sulfur compounds using gas chromatography. The participants with halitosis will be randomized into two subgroups: treatment with photodynamic therapy (n = 20) or cleaning of the tongue with a tongue scraper (n = 20). After the treatments, a second evaluation will be performed, along with a microbiological analysis (qPCR) for the identification of the bacteria P. gingivalis and T. denticola. If the halitosis persists, the dentate participants will received periodontal treatment and the edentulous participants will be submitted to hygiene procedures for the mucosa and dentures. The evaluation of halitosis and the microbiological analysis will be repeated. If the halitosis is resolved, the participants will return after three months for an additional evaluation. This protocol will determine the effectiveness of phototherapy regarding the reduction of halitosis in healthy older adults and those with bronchiectasis.