Self-perception of breath odor: Role of body image and psychopathologic traits

Oral malodor is a common complaint in Western society and is an important reason why adults seek dental counsel. In the present study, an attempt was made to evaluate the contribution of psychopathologic traits and of body-image characteristics on participants' self-perception of breath odor. 60 participants without any specific complaint concerning breath odor (55% men: M age 35.5 yr., SD = 10) were evaluated. Variables included self-evaluation of participants' own breath odor (generally and current), an organoleptic evaluation of an impartial judge of odor, measurement of the volatile sulfide level in the oral cavity, and questionnaires referring to psychopathologic symptoms and body-image characteristics. Stepwise regression analysis showed that in addition to impartial measurements, self-perception of breath odor among noncomplaining subjects can be predicted by their feelings and attitudes toward the body and by their hostility.