ABSTRACT
Halitosis is a symptom caused by various conditions including poor oral hygiene, dry mouth, dental diseases and gastrointestinal and pulmonary problems. The oral cavity is the most common source of halitosis and is responsible in about 85% of cases. Oral hygiene is essential with toothbrushing and mouthwash. Unexplained oral and dental trauma may be caused by physical and/or sexual child abuse. Manifestations include oral bruising, abrasions and laceration of the tongue, lips and frenum. Other features that may be caused by sexual abuse include oral erythema, vesicles and ulcer. Risk factors for dental caries include genetic and racial factors, unavailability of water fluoride, poor oral hygiene including toothbrushing, poverty, low level of education and malocclusion of the teeth. Extra-oral causes of mouth bleeding are uncommon and include serious underlying systemic disorders such as thrombocytopenia, leukaemia, aplastic anaemia and von Willebrand disease. Oral gels, which are used to treat oral ulcers, may contain salicylate salts.
