Halitosis is a widespread condition that affects a large number of people. The unpleasant odor that radiates from the mouth, especially from the back of the tongue, can range from a mild sulfur odor to an overwhelming musty stench. Halitosis in school-aged children is not an unusual disorder; rather, it is rather common. According to the research, 'Prevalence and risk factors of halitosis in Japanese schoolchildren,' published in 2018, 44.9 percent of the subjects were youngsters.
Although halitosis is often seen as an unpleasant illness, it can also be caused by a variety of medical disorders. Diabetes, hypothyroidism, renal failure, and some forms of cancer are among them. Furthermore, antibiotics, quinolone antibiotics, antihistamines, antidepressants, antipsychotic drugs, sedatives, and tranquilizers can all cause halitosis.
Poor dental hygiene or bad brushing practices are frequently listed as causes of halitosis in children and adults. Oral healthcare specialists advocate regular brushing of the tongue and back teeth with tongue scrappers or an interdental toothbrush as part of halitosis treatment to remove food particles that may become caught between the teeth or between the tongue and the teeth. Small fragments of food become lodged against the teeth or between the gums as a result of this procedure, known as tongue scraping. When these food particles become trapped in the mouth, they might emit foul-smelling fumes.
Cavities, dry mouth, and oral cancer are among medical disorders that can cause bad breath. Cavities, whether filled with liquid or dry materials, can get infected and cause gums, bones, and teeth to thicken. As a result of this modification, pockets of air can develop between the teeth, providing an excellent habitat for bacterial growth. Another frequent ailment that can cause bad breath is dry mouth, which develops as a result of inadequate dental care. Other conditions that can cause bad breath include tooth decay, gum disease, and dry mouth. Taking care to maintain adequate oral hygiene is critical in the treatment of halitosis.