Your child is the light of your life. But when their breath smells, you may think twice before going in for a kiss. More importantly, bad breath, also known as halitosis, may indicate an underlying health concern that requires a visit to the dentist. Use the guide below to pinpoint the cause of your child’s rank breath and learn what you can do about it.

3 Likely Reasons Your Child Has Bad Breath

1. Poor Oral Hygiene Habits

Leftover food particles in teeth will attract odor-causing bacteria. The food bits themselves will also slowly rot and smell. Left unaddressed, this accumulation of bacteria can lead to gum disease, so instill your kid with a few key dental habits. Get them to brush twice daily for around two to three minutes and floss once a day. Make sure they brush at a 45-degree angle to reach the food residue hiding under the gum line. Consult your dentist for more dental hygiene advice for brushing around orthodontic devices, such as braces.

2. Dry Mouth

Saliva in the mouth helps wash away harmful microorganisms. However, certain behaviors and conditions can inhibit this function. Mouth breathing and snoring, for example, evaporate saliva, while dehydration may rob the salivary glands of necessary fluids. Make sure your kid is drinking enough water to encourage saliva production, and visit their doctor to find out if any medications are a contributing factor.

3.Tonsil Stones

Even kids with impeccable dental hygiene may end up with bad breath. Those with tonsils may find that food debris can easily become lodged in the throat. Over time, the food particles will harden into tonsil stones, which exude a sulfur-like smell. Getting the tonsils removed is an option, but as your dentist can explain, you can also dissolve the stones with less invasive strategies. Stones can be dislodged by coughing, for example, while certain foods, such as apples and yogurt, can fight the bacteria that form these smelly stones.

Whether your child needs help improving their breath or you need a dental procedure, call Nizich Family Dental. This family-owned and -operated dental practice has served the Juneau, AK, region for over a decade. Dr. Tony Nizich is a member of the Alaska Dental Society and American Dental Association, which ensures he stays up to date on all the latest dental procedures. Visit them online to learn more about available services, including dental cleanings, fillings, root canals, and teeth whitening treatments, and call (907) 789-7001 to schedule an appointment with a dentist.