Halitosis in kids can be a sign of health issues. It can also cause social anxiety, lack of confidence and affect the kid's quality of life. If not treated, bad breath (halitosis) can lead to severe oral issues. For instance, if bad breath results from gum disease, the infection can spread and affect the supporting tissues, leading to tooth loss. Luckily, you can prevent bad breath. A good way to achieve this is by learning the causes. Here are 3 possible causes of halitosis:
Dry Mouth
Dry mouth is a common oral issue in kids. It can result from dehydration, pacifier use, and thumb sucking. Mouth breathing can also make the saliva evaporate. When there isn't enough saliva to wash away food debris and bacteria, the mouth will emit an unpleasant odor. While you can treat a dry mouth by encouraging your child to drink plenty of water, it is good to visit a pediatric dentist to determine the root cause.
Poor Oral Hygiene
For some children, teeth brushing and flossing are challenging. If food debris and plaque remain in the mouth, bacteria will have something to eat. As they feed on the food particles, they release sulfur compounds, causing bad breath. For this reason, good oral hygiene should be your priority. Be sure to brush and floss your kid's teeth regularly. Also, schedule appointments with a pediatric dentist for dental examination and cleaning. The professional can also teach your kid how to brush their teeth and the importance of keeping them clean.
Oral Infections
A bad breath can also be a sign of oral infections. When good oral hygiene is not implemented, oral infections such as periodontitis and tooth decay may occur. If not treated, the bacteria responsible for the infections can lead to chronic bad breath. Schedule an appointment today, and our professionals will discuss various possible causes of halitosis in kids and how to prevent them.
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