Does Orthodontics Offer a New Cure for Halitosis in Children?
Being diagnosed with chronic halitosis can happen at any time in someone’s life, but studies have shown that it is most prevalent in children. An article published in the Journal of Natural Science, Biology, and Medicine noted that anywhere from 5–75% of children test positive for halitosis. Since most cases of halitosis can be cured with good oral maintenance or a change in diet, it’s tempting to just wave off “temporary bad breath.” However, this same article notes persistent halitosis “creates social and psychological disadvantages for individuals, and these situations affect an individual’s relation with other people.” On the subject of childhood halitosis, researchers from Kirikkale University in Turkey believe they have identified an effective treatment for certain cases of chronic halitosis. In a study published in the American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, researchers described how rapid maxillary expansion (RME) could be a treatment option for patients with maxillary transverse deficiency and halitosis.
children in the RME group were treated with a hyrax appliance while the children in the control group received no treatment. The children were evaluated for halitosis using a halimeter and the organoleptic method, had their plaque index and gingival index scores recorded, and their nasal volume was measured with acoustic rhinometry. The measurements were taken twice, once prior to the start of RME treatment and again after retention at four months. While there were no statistically significant differences for the plaque index between either group, halitosis decreased significantly in the RME group, while the control group showed no significant changes of halitosis. Additionally, gingival index values were significantly decreased and nasal cavity volume increased significantly in the RME group (P ≤0.05 and P <0.01 respectively). Based on these results, the research concluded that “RME was shown to lower halitosis values,” potentially opening the door for more research into this treatment option.
Researchers randomly divided 30 children aged 11 to 15 into RME and control groups. The
Watermelon Cucumber Skewers
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Inspired by CookingLight.com
Skewers are a Fourth of July favorite, but these are not your classic kebabs. They’re a fresh, light, and fun way to start a barbecue. Oh, and they don’t require any actual cooking.
INGREDIENTS
DIRECTIONS
• • • • •
1 medium-sized watermelon, cubed 2 cucumbers, cut into 1/4-inch rounds
1. In a small saucepan, heat butter over 1. Assemble skewers by placing one watermelon cube, one cucumber round, one feta cube, and one mint leaf on skewer in that order. Repeat until skewer is full. 2. Lightly season with salt and chill in fridge until right before serving.
1 block feta cheese, cubed 1 bunch fresh mint leaves
Salt, to taste
Equipment •
1 packet of bamboo skewers
3
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