Association Between Tongue-Coating Index (TCI) and Severity of Halitosis in Adolescent Male Students in the City of Karbala, Iraq

Background: The tongue coating (TC) is the formation of a white-greyish layer in the mouth which is mainly responsible for intraoral halitosis (IOH) and is usually unwanted. One of the leading contributors to IOH is volatile sulfur compounds (VSC), with TC and periodontal disease recognized as the primary sources of VSC. The dorsum of the tongue has a papilla-covered surface that contains a relatively high amount of desquamated cells, leukocytes, and microbes that produce the odorous substances responsible for bad breath. This study aimed to analyze the relationship between tongue coating and halitosis.  Materials and methods: The population consists of 400 males students from 44 secondary institutions located in Karbala city, Iraq. The Halimeter was used to measure the extent of bad breath among the test subjects.  The levels of tongue coating were assessed by the use of the tongue coating index (TCI) method.  Results: There was a relationship revealed regarding halitosis and tongue score (P value 0.000). It was also found that tongue coating scores had a significant relationship with values of VSC. Conclusion: Halitosis can lead to psychological issues for individuals, representing a significant health concern.  The findings indicate a positive impact of increased awareness regarding oral hygiene and the practice of tongue brushing, which contribute to enhanced oral odor and overall oral health.