Bad breath, known as halitosis, can be a complicated issue for your child. There can be a number of causes, and it’s often tied to more serious oral health issues. It usually means they also aren’t properly caring for their teeth. It’s important you reinforce positive dental habits and work with their dentist for proper oral health. Resolving health issues and eliminating bad breath will ensure they have a healthy mouth.

What Are the Causes of Halitosis?

A number of factors contribute to bad breath, with poor dental care being the leading one. Rotting food and decay-causing bacteria on the teeth and tongue create foul odors. Dry mouth and mouth breathing might further this issue since plaque and bacteria aren’t washed from the teeth with saliva throughout the day. Some medications can also release chemicals when broken down that cause bad breath.

When Should You See a Dentist?

Chronic bad breath, gum inflammation, swelling, bleeding, or signs of an infection all warrant a trip to the dentist. They need to carefully examine your child’s mouth for signs of decay, as well as health issues. If they find nothing wrong with your child’s teeth, they might refer you to a primary care physician or ear, nose, and throat specialist to look for other possible causes of halitosis.

How Can You Prevent Halitosis?

Your child needs to brush and floss at least twice a day with dentist-approved products. This includes cleaning their tongue. They should also see their pediatric dentist twice a year for a teeth cleaning and exam. Serve sugary and acidic foods in moderation to prevent tooth decay and gum disease, and make sure any concerns about your child’s oral health are addressed right away.

Mouth breathing and open mouth posture has so many negative consequences on the growth of the developing face. We preform airway evaluations at every visit to ensure that your child is a primary nasal breather and if they are not we will help to diagnose why. When air is in the mouth it creates a breading ground for acids and many health symptoms can be attributed to improper breathing.

If your child is overdue for a teeth cleaning, turn to the professionals at Dental Distinctions. They’ve served Kalispell, MT, for over 20 years and focus on creating a warm, welcoming environment for patients. A dentist will work closely with you and your child to achieve the best smile, and they also offer cosmetic dentistry solutions when needed. Call (406) 755-4166 to schedule an exam, or visit their website to learn more about their team.