Halitosis in children

Objective: To determine the relationship between oral parameters and halitosis in children whose parents complained of malodorous breath. Methods: Twenty-four children (ages 5 to 14) were examined at 3 appointments. After the second appointment oral hygiene instructions were given. Malodor-related parameters included odor judge scores (whole mouth, tongue, nose, and interdental areas), sulfide levels, and microbiologic tests (Oratest and BANA). Dental-related parameters included plaque index, dental index (DMFT), food impaction, bleeding, and tongue coating. Statistical analyses included analysis of variance, paired t tests, Pearson correlations, and multiple regression. Results: Whole mouth odor was significantly associated with plaque index levels ( r = 0.64, P = .001) and Oratest ( r = –0.57, P = .003). Whole mouth malodor was significantly associated with tongue dorsum posterior odor ( r = 0.641, P = .001) and was higher in subjects with interdental odor ( P = .003). Tongue odor was also significantly associated with nasal malodor ( r = 0.57; P = .004). Sulfide levels were correlated with oral malodor levels only at the second appointment ( r = 0.46, P = .02). Conclusions: The data suggest that, as in adults, oral malodor in children is related primarily to oral factors. Correlations between nasal and oral malodor were evident, suggesting that postnasal drip plays a major role. (J Pediatr 1999;134:338-43)