Halitosis is the medical term for chronic bad breath. It’s a common problem that can affect people of all ages, and dentists can easily provide guidance for the appropriate type of treatment. If you’re concerned that your child suffers from the condition, here’s what you need to know.

Causes of Halitosis in Children

There are many reasons why children may develop halitosis. Poor dental care habits, such as lack of brushing, can contribute to consistently bad breath. So can eating foods that contain potent ingredients, like garlic and cheese.

Specific medical and dental issues can also cause bad breath. Untreated cavities could be to blame; because this can also lead to tooth decay, children should see their dentist regularly to prevent problems.

Check your child’s tonsils, too. If they appear swollen, they may be infected, which can produce an odor. Sinus infections, which cause fluid to accumulate in the throat, may also lead to strong breath.

Signs They Should See a Dentist

Everyone suffers from bad breath sometimes. Under normal circumstances, brushing the tongue and using a mouth rinse should be enough to resolve it.

When the problem continues to affect your child, schedule a visit with the dentist. They can perform a thorough dental exam to determine if there’s a cavity present or if your child has a gum infection. The latter may occur if kids don’t brush and floss regularly; halitosis is a common symptom of this problem.

Tips to Prevent It

Once your child’s halitosis has been treated, it’s important for them to adopt healthy oral care habits to prevent future issues. Assert the importance of regular brushing and flossing after meals, and remind them to brush their tongue to remove additional bacteria.

Replace your child’s toothbrush at regular intervals, too, and swap it for a new one if they’ve recently been sick. Finally, schedule routine visits with the dentist to ensure that your child’s teeth and gums remain consistently healthy. A professional can detect and treat problems before they become worse.

Are you seeking a dependable dentist in Missouri to treat your child’s halitosis? Visit Bolivar Family Dental. Dr. Gonzales, DDS, and his staff provide quality care for patients of all ages throughout Polk and the surrounding counties. In addition to pediatric dentistry, they offer routine teeth cleanings and whitening, dental implants, root canals, and oral surgery. Visit their website for more information, or call (417) 777-8654 to schedule an appointment.