Evaluation of oral and nasal halitosis parameters in patients with repaired cleft lip and/or palate

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this study was to investigate the relationship between halitosis parameters in patients with and without cleft lip and/or palate.

Study design: Forty-two subjects were examined. They were divided into group I, postgraduate students of Bauru Dental School (FOB); and group II, individuals with repaired cleft lip and/or palate. The concentration of volatile sulfur compounds (VSC) was assessed with a portable sulfide monitor and the values were correlated to the salivary flow rate and weight of tongue coating.

Results: There was a relationship between the presence of tongue coating and VSC levels, as well as between salivary flow rate and VSC levels in group II. The same group also revealed a significant correlation between weight of tongue coating and salivary flow rate. There were no significant differences between groups as regards the Halimeter oral measurement.

Conclusions: Individuals with repaired cleft lip and/or palate can have the same VSC levels as subjects without clefts.