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Aim A clear relationship between tongue coating and oral malodour has been observed in many clinical trials. Why or when this coating is formed remains an open question. The aim of this study was to analyse possible factors related to the presence of tongue coating in a population complaining from oral malodour. Materials and Methods Patients were recruited from a halitosis clinic ( UZ Leuven). Medical history, dietary and oral hygiene habits were retrieved via a questionnaire. Data were recorded on organoleptic score and level of sulphur compounds in breath, anatomical features of the tongue dorsum, amount of tongue coating (according to three indices: Miyazaki, Winkel and modified Winkel), tongue coating wet weight and salivary flow. The correlation between the presence of tongue coating and a series of parameters was analysed. Results The level of oral hygiene was the strongest determinant factor for the presence of tongue coating. Smoking, presence of a denture, periodontal status and dietary habits also correlated although less obvious. Conclusion The presence of tongue coating appears to be related to several factors of which oral hygiene is the strongest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]