Most kids don’t prioritize brushing and flossing. As such, it’s not uncommon for them to have bad breath on occasion. If your children have chronic bad breath, though, take them to a pediatric dentist. The only way to treat halitosis is by determining its underlying cause, which may or may not be an oral health issue. If you’re concerned about your kids’ breath, here’s what you should know about halitosis in children. 

Common Causes 

There are several possible causes of chronic bad breath in both children and adults. Some of the most common examples include sinus infections, swollen tonsils, tooth abscesses, and cavities. If your child has a habit of sticking things up his or her nose, foreign objects in the nasal passages could also be contributing to bad breath. When the nose is blocked, you must breathe through your mouth, which dries the saliva, thereby preventing it from rinsing away food particle and bacteria.

Signs & Symptoms

If your child has bad breath after eating a dish loaded with onions or garlic, there may not be any cause for concern. Likewise, bad breath that only presents in the morning may not require medical intervention because it’s fairly common to wake up with dry mouth. However, bad breath that persists or has no apparent cause calls for a trip to the pediatric dentist. You should also schedule an exam right away if your son or daughter has a toothache or experiences sensitivity when eating hot or cold foods, as both are signs of damage and decay. 

Treatment & Prevention 

Naturally, the most effective way to treat halitosis will depend on its underlying cause. If a patient has chronic bad breath, his or her pediatric dentist will first rule out any oral health issues. Thankfully, most dental issues that cause bad breath in children are relatively easy to treat. For example, simple fillings can repair cavities, while straightforward root canal procedures can eliminate tooth abscesses. If, on the other hand, some other health issue appears to be the cause of the bad breath, the dentist will recommend making an appointment with your child’s primary care provider. 

When it comes to preventing halitosis in the future, the most effective way is  by practicing good oral hygiene habits. This includes brushing after every meal, flossing once daily, and visiting a dentist every six months for a professional cleaning. 

If one of your kids has halitosis, turn to Brandi Prather, DMD, PSC. Practicing out of Somerset, KY, this knowledgeable pediatric dentist and her friendly staff know how to put even the fussiest patients at ease. For more than a decade, they've been providing comprehensive dental care for families throughout Pulaski County. To schedule a dental cleaning and exam for your child, call (606) 679-5437.