First-of-its-kind clinical trial to sniff out potential therapy for halitosis

Researchers may have identified a new approach to manage chronic halitosis.

Prior research has shown that halitosis may be caused by a disrupted oral microbiome that allows certain anaerobic bacteria that produce compounds associated with the condition to accumulate in the oral cavity, according to a news article from Oral Health. The researchers’ experimental treatment strategy would involve oral microbiota transplants from healthy donors, a method that would explore whether imbalanced oral microbiomes can be restored.

To perform oral microbiota transplants, the researchers detailed that they conducted periodontal examinations, collected oral bacteria samples to suspend in a saline solution and provided oral cleanings to remove biofilms. After the initial steps, the patients rinsed with the donor solution and received a concentrated bacterial preparation on their gums.

While microbiome-based therapies such as fecal microbiota transplants already exist for disrupted gut microbiomes, oral microbiota transplants have yet to be assessed for their feasibility and efficacy. Having completed four oral microbiota transplants, the researchers plan to evaluate the outcomes after a period of 90 days.

Read more: Oral Health

The article presented here is intended to inform you about the broader media perspective on dentistry, regardless of its alignment with the ADA's stance. It is important to note that publication of an article does not imply the ADA's endorsement, agreement, or promotion of its content.