Every person has an occasional bout of bad breath but when it becomes chronic it can be a sign of a dental problem, even for children. Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics of Chattanooga offers an overview of halitosis in children.
What is Halitosis?
“Halitosis” is the medical terminology used to describe a case of bad breath. Even healthy children can experience halitosis. There are multiple reasons associated with children experiencing bad breath. Some of the most common reasons include:
- Poor oral hygiene practices.
- A sign of infection or disease.
- Mouth breathing or dry mouth.
- Diet.
- A foreign object.
How Can a Parent Help?
Foreign Object — If a parent suspects their child may have inserted a foreign object into one of their nasal passages, they should seek immediate medical attention. Lodging a foreign object into a nasal passage can cause an infection, which can lead to bad breath.
Poor Oral Hygiene — Another reason for a child to experience bad breath is because they don’t follow good oral hygiene practices. As with adults, when children don’t brush and floss regularly, it can cause a buildup of bacteria and plaque on their teeth and gums. Parents should make sure their child consistently practices good oral hygiene and take them to a dentist for regular checkups.
Infection or Disease — Sinus infections and swollen tonsils can lead to bad breath. More rarely, illnesses such as stomach infections, diabetes, oral cancer, kidney failure, or liver problems can cause bad breath in children. Parents should seek medical attention if they suspect their child has an infection. If their child has a known medical issue, they should speak with their doctor about treating their bad breath as well.
Mouth Breathing or Dry Mouth — Having a dry mouth is caused by lack of saliva, which can occur from certain medications, general dehydration, excessive pacifier use, or excessive mouth breathing. Parent should ensure their child receives adequate hydration every day, and if applicable, discourage excessive use of a pacifier or habitual mouth breathing. If their child continues to have problems, they should speak with their child’s physician or dentist.
Diet — Some children tend to eat certain foods for months on end. A diet heavy in red meat, fish, cheese, and/or odorous foods like garlic and onions can lead to bad breath. Parent should ensure their child eats a wide variety of foods and brushes and flosses their teeth, especially after a high-protein or odorous meal.
How Can a Pediatric Dentist Help?
A pediatric dentist is specially trained to identify, diagnose, and treat dental issues and certain illnesses primarily found in children. They are also trained in handling the special requirements that children often present due to their smaller facial anatomy, their difficulty in remaining still for procedures, and their fear of pain or discomfort. Pediatric dentists understand how important it is to create a positive dental experience for their little patients in order for them to establish good dental habits for life.
Schedule your child’s appointment at Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics of Chattanooga with one of our outstanding pediatric dentists. Our team is so excited to meet you and your family!
