Wondering why your child’s breath smells so bad? There are a few possible reasons to consider.

1. Poor Oral Hygiene

If your child has a lot of plaque bacteria and food debris in his or her mouth, this is most likely the cause of the stench. Tooth brushing and flossing are critical to removing plaque buildup and keeping breath fresh. Your child may need more help with maintaining a good routine of oral hygiene.

2. Digestive Trouble

Bad breath could have its roots in a more serious issue. Digestive problems, for example, may be to blame. Indigestion and lactose intolerance are a couple possibilities.

3. Cavities

A cavity is an actively rotting tooth. Your child’s foul breath could be an indication that they have a few spots of active decay in need of treatment.

4. Infection and Allergies

An infection in the mouth or sinus drainage may give off a strong odor. Sinus infection can also lead to dry mouth and an increase in bacteria, both of which make breath stink.

5. Dry Mouth

Have you noticed that your child’s mouth looks a little dry? Dehydration, certain medications, allergies, or just a habit of mouth-breathing can dry out oral tissues. Without sufficient saliva, you child’s oral environment will host more smelly germs.

What to Do About Bad Breath in Kids

Help your kids stay hydrated with plenty of water to avoid dry mouth. Sweet drinks will only promote the growth of odor-causing bacteria. Teach your children about the importance of good oral hygiene and help them brush and floss daily.

Lastly, schedule a visit to the dental office to find out what specifically could be causing your child’s bad breath.

Posted on behalf of:
Greencastle Dental
195 Greencastle Road
Tyrone, GA 30290
(770) 486-5585