If you’ve found that your toddler experiences bad breath, you’re not the only one. Any kids’ dental care professional can attest that even small mouths can smell sometimes, and there are a plethora of possible causes for toddler halitosis. Here are a few of the most common offenders and some ways they can be easily remedied.

5 Causes of Bad Breath for Toddlers

1. Poor Oral Hygiene

Because young children are still learning how to brush their teeth, they often miss hard-to-reach areas. This leaves food particles behind that react with the bacteria in the mouth, creating unpleasant odors. The good news is that by giving your child’s teeth a quick once-over with their toothbrush when they’re finished brushing, you can prevent this issue entirely. If the problem persists, schedule a cleaning with a local children’s dentist to catch any plaque or cavities before they form.

2. Strong-Smelling Foods

The simplest cause of foul-smelling breath is odorous food. Onions, garlic, some dairy, and other pungent ingredients can leave a scent that sticks around long after the meal is over. Teaching your child to brush after meals can help you both avoid post-dinner breath.

3. Medication

Due to different chemical reactions as medications break down in the body, certain prescriptions might make your child’s breath smell bad. Sometimes, taking medications with food or following them up with a quick teeth brushing can be enough to cover the scent. If not, a kids’ dental care professional might be able to provide a more effective solution.

4. Dry Mouth

While dry mouth itself has a variety of causes, it can also be a major contributor to your child’s bad breath. When the mouth is dry, the lack of saliva allows for excess bacterial growth and mucus in the throat, causing the subsequent odor. Dry mouth can often be remedied by breaking habits, like sucking a thumb or the corner of a blanket.

5. Obstructions in the Nose

Blocked airways in your little one’s nose can create bad breath in a number of ways. If food or another small item gets stuck in your toddler’s nostrils, it can force them to breathe through their mouth, causing dry mouth and bad breath. Sinus congestion can also be a culprit for dry mouth. Thankfully, a doctor can remove stuck items in your child’s nose, and congestion can be combated with decongestants and expectorants.

If your toddler experiences persistent bad breath, it might be necessary to visit a specialist in kids’ dental care to pinpoint the source of the problem. While occasional bouts of bad breath are usually nothing to worry about, a more constant struggle can point to oral health issues that require treatment from a professional. If you’re in the Anchorage area, trust Dr. Chris Coplin and the team at Alaska Dentistry for Kids to teach your little one the oral hygiene they need to keep them smiling for life. Call (907) 274-2525 to schedule an appointment with a kids’ dental care professional, or visit their website to learn more about their services.