Halitosis is a problem that affects a significant number of people. The unpleasant odor that emanates from the mouth, particularly from the back of the tongue, can range from a subtle sulfur smell to an overpowering musty odor. Halitosis in school children is not a rare condition; instead, its occurrence is relatively high. According to the study, ‘Prevalence and risk factors of halitosis in Japanese schoolchildren, published in 2018, in Japan, 44.9% of subjects that comprised of children had halitosis.
Although halitosis is generally seen only as an unpleasant condition, many health conditions can cause halitosis as well. These include diabetes, hypothyroidism, kidney failure, and certain types of cancer. In addition, various medications can also result in halitosis, such as antibiotics, quinolone antibiotics, antihistamines, antidepressants, antipsychotic medications, sedatives, and tranquilizers.
Poor oral hygiene or poor brushing habits are often cited as causes of halitosis in both children and adults. As a part of halitosis treatment, oral healthcare providers recommend daily brushing of the tongue and rear teeth with tongue scrappers or an interdental toothbrush to remove food particles that may become trapped between the teeth or between the tongue and the teeth. This process referred to as tongue scraping, results in small pieces of food that lodge against the teeth or between the gums. When these food particles become lodged, they can produce foul-smelling gases that emanate from the mouth.
Other medical conditions that can result in foul breath include cavities, dry mouth, and oral cancer. Cavities, whether filled with liquid or dry matter, may become infected and result in a thickening of the gums, bones, and teeth. As a result of this change, pockets of air can form between the teeth, creating an ideal environment for bacterial growth. Dry mouth, which occurs as a result of poor dental care, is another common condition that can result in bad breath include tooth decay, gum disease, and dry mouth. Taking steps to maintain proper oral hygiene is an important factor in halitosis treatment.