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.