Bad breath or halitosis is a very common problem in kids. Some of the major causes of this issue include improper oral hygiene routines, certain medical conditions, dehydration, intake of some food items, etc. Parents are often concerned about the bad breath in kids and also embarrassed in the case of teenagers. Knowing the common information related to bad breath can help resolve the problem.
What Causes Bad Breath In Children?
Halitosis or bad breath in kids can be caused due to various factors. Some of them are:
- Poor dental hygiene routine
- Dry mouth or dehydration
- Intake of smelly food items
- Medical conditions such as enlarged tonsils or acid reflux
- Intake of certain medications
- Breathing from the mouth
- Periodontal problems
- Dental decay
Improper Oral Hygiene Can Cause Bad Breath In Toddlers
Poor dental hygiene is one of the leading causes of foul breath in children. The tongue, gums, and gaps between teeth are where smelly, halitosis-causing debris can be found most commonly in the mouth. Plaque builds up when food and bacteria stay on the teeth, resulting in an unpleasant smell.
Can Brushing And Flossing Cure Bad Breath In Kids?
Curing bad breath in kids that are caused due to the lack of proper oral care is relatively simple. Brushing the teeth properly for at least two minutes, floss correctly, and scrape or brush the tongue. Many people neglect or are unaware of the benefits of brushing their tongues. The odor-causing bacteria can build up on the tongue, but they can be easily removed by taking proper care of the tongue.
Using a tongue scraper can be a wise idea. They are specifically designed to clean the tongue and can be found in most oral hygiene sections of drug stores.
Following proper techniques to remove the plaque that causes bad breath is essential. For example, create a 45-degree angle with the gums by slanting the toothbrush a little bit. The gumline can be commonly missed when you brush, which can be the prominent reason for plaque buildup and bad breath.
What To Do If Your Kid Suffers From Bad Breath Even After Brushing?
Unfortunately, brushing alone does not clean in between the teeth. Thus your child can still have bad breath even after brushing. These areas can be cleaned with the help of flossing. The flossing choices range from traditional floss and handle flossers to air flossers.
The traditional floss and handle flossers are still the most effective options, while the other flossing devices and techniques can be great adjuncts. The key part of flossing is ensuring that the floss follows the tooth’s contour and goes underneath the gum.
Additionally, it’s crucial to remember that an individual should properly store their toothbrush in an upright position so it does not touch anything, and the bristles stay dry. This will minimize bacterial growth in the toothbrush. It is advisable to replace your toothbrush after every three months, or when it gets worn down, frayed bristles are a common sign. These are all considered effective tips to keep your mouth clean by checking the bacterial growth in your mouth, which is a significant cause of halitosis.
Dry Mouth And Dehydration Can Cause Bad Breath In Kids
Drinking adequate water is very important for the entire human body, and the mouth is no exception. Dehydration is considered to be the major cause of bad breath in kids. When a person does not drink enough water, less saliva is produced, which leads to the growth of bad odor-causing bacteria in the mouth.
Final Words
We hope you are now aware of the important details about the problem of bad breath in kids. Consult a pediatric dentist near you if your child suffers from halitosis even after adopting domestic measures. Book an appointment with Arcade Dental if you are looking for the best kids’ dentistry treatments in Pharr, TX. Give us a call today!
