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Most parents love to cuddle, read to, and talk with their children. However, if they have bad breath, you might be more tempted to call your pediatric dentist to schedule an appointment than continue these activities. Fortunately, by knowing the cause of halitosis, you can deal with this problem and prevent it in the future.

3 Reasons Your Child Might Have Bad Breath

Poor Brushing Habits 

Pediatric dentist Oahu Maui HIMany kids lack the coordination to brush properly, allowing plaque, tartar, and bacteria to collect on their teeth. Bacteria emit acids that erode dental enamel, toxins that inflame gums, and organic compounds that smell terrible, contributing to bad breath. To prevent it, teach your child proper brushing habits. Until they are skilled at doing it on their own, help them brush and floss their teeth to avoid trouble.   

Eating Certain Foods

As members of the allium family, foods like garlic and onions contain sulfur compounds that remain in your child’s mouth for hours, giving them smelly breath. To make the problem worse, these compounds are absorbed into the bloodstream and carried to the lungs, extending a bout with bad breath. If you are worried about your child’s breath, monitor their diet and avoid giving them foods like potent spices, onions, and garlic.

Mouth Breathing

If your child usually breathes through their mouth instead of their nose, their mouth might be too dry, interfering with the natural rinsing process provided by saliva. Encourage your child to breathe through their nose. If they continue to breathe through their mouth, discuss it with your child’s pediatrician to determine a reason.

 

If you are worried about your child’s malodorous breath, make an appointment with the best pediatric dentists on Oahu and Maui. Pedodontic Associates specializes in dental care for children, offering everything from basic cleanings and checkups to dental restorations and emergency dentistry. For more information about these pediatric dentists, visit them online or call (808) 735-1733 for the Honolulu office, (808) 487-7933 for the Aiea location, or (808) 877-0066 for their Kahului office. Follow them on Twitter for updates and dental care tips from the practice.

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