Disclosed are safe, simple and effective broad-spectrum treatments for halitosis and other microbial infections of the nondental upper
respiratory tract useful to treat bacterial and other
microorganism species, including
anaerobic bacteria. Electromagnetic radiative energy including visible, and optionally, thermal, RF and / or
microwave wavelengths, is topically applied to internal surfaces of the upper
respiratory tract to destroy or incapacitate superficial microorganisms without the use of
antibiotics. One useful apparatus is a handheld
energy applicator having a light output head suitable for treating the back of the tongue and the tonsils and which may be interchangeably provided with extensions to reach the sinuses. The
energy applicator can be supported and guided by a mounting device held between the subject's teeth, if desired. Useful embodiments of the invention include preparative treatment of the target surfaces with a
photosensitizing agent such as an
oxidizing agent or a complementary
stain. Optionally a pre-treament procedure may be employed to remove
detritus and microfloral overgrowths that may
mask more deeply resident target microorganisms. Novel treatments include treatment of halitosis by destruction of bacterial species associated with halitosis, such as Atopobium parvulum, by application of non-ionizing radiative energy to the tonsils and the back of the tongue. Another embodiment comprises a candy bar incorporating a halitosis treatment lamp disposed within the candy.