The mouth is one of the parts of the body that requires attention to cleanliness and health. If not, bacteria can develop in the mouth, which can trigger bad breath. It’s not just adults; toddlers can also experience bad breath issues.
Bad breath, or medically referred to as halitosis, is a condition where the oral cavity emits an unpleasant odor. If a toddler experiences bad breath, this can cause them to be avoided by their friends.
Symptoms and Causes of Bad Breath in Toddlers
If your little one has halitosis, their mouth will feel bitter or sour, and their tongue will appear white. Bad breath is not only caused by active bacteria in the mouth but also by several conditions, including:
- Dental Health Problems
Some dental health problems that toddlers might experience include cavities, tartar buildup, dental abscesses, or gum infections. If these conditions are not promptly treated, they can lead not only to bad breath but also to inflammation, which may require a tooth extraction.
- Food Particles in the Mouth
Brushing teeth should not just be done during baths but is also recommended after meals. This is because leftover food can create active bacteria that produce an unpleasant odor in the mouth.
Bad breath in children can also be triggered by foods with strong odors, such as if the child has recently consumed foods rich in garlic or spicy dishes. If the child’s mouth is not properly cleaned, this can lead to bad breath.
- Dry Mouth
Respiratory diseases like sinusitis can make it difficult for children to breathe through their nose. As a result, they may open their mouth to get air, leading to dry mouth. Dry mouth can cause the salivary glands in the mouth to be unable to produce enough saliva.
Saliva helps to moisturize the mouth and neutralize the acid from bacteria. When there is insufficient saliva, bacteria can rapidly grow in the mouth, leading to bad breath. Additionally, dry mouth can occur due to medication side effects, such as antihistamines, decongestants, allergy medications, and asthma medication given to children.
- Signs of Certain Diseases
Several diseases are marked by bad breath in toddlers. The most likely ones are gastrointestinal (GI) problems, acid reflux (GERD), diabetes, kidney issues, and even cancer.
How to Handle Bad Breath in Toddlers
To resolve bad breath issues in children, here are a few things Moms can do:
- Encourage the child to brush their teeth and clean their tongue at least twice a day and replace the toothbrush every 2-3 months.
- Ensure the child drinks enough water regularly.
- Avoid giving spicy or strongly scented foods to the child.
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Set up a schedule to check the child’s oral and dental health at least every 6 months. Also, consult with a healthcare professional to assess any risks for serious diseases marked by bad breath.
