Bad breath, also called halitosis, is common in children. It is usually temporary and easily treated, especially if you make good dental hygiene a priority. Understanding the different reasons that your child may develop bad breath can help you take the necessary steps to treat the problem.
Foods
Foods can cause bad breath include garlic, onions and cabbage. When these foods are broken down in your child's body, some of the food's oils are absorbed into the bloodstream and carried to the lungs, where they give off an odor until they are eliminated from your child's body. This type of bad breath is only temporary.
Poor Hygiene
Food particles collect in your child's mouth. If they are not brushed and flossed away, they begin to rot and collect bacteria. Plaque also begins to grow on teeth and collect bacteria. KidsHealth.org recommends that your child brush her teeth at least twice a day and floss at least once a day. She should also brush her tongue because bacteria grow there as well. Take her to the dentist for a cleaning and checkup twice a year. If she is too young to brush and floss on her own, you will need to help her.
Object in Nose
A foreign object in your child's nose may cause bad breath, along with discharge from one nostril. Babycenter states that this is especially common in toddlers who may try to insert peas, beans or small toys into their nose. To remedy this, you will need to take your child to the doctor where a special tool will be used to remove the object safely.
Dry Mouth
Saliva helps to rinse away food particles and bacteria. If your child is breathing with his mouth open, such as at night or if he has a stuffy nose, his mouth becomes dry because of a lack of saliva. This causes bacteria in his mouth to increase. If he has a stuffy nose, help to clear his nasal passages. You can also give him a lot of water to keep his mouth moist.
Sickness
Bad breath is a symptom of a sinus infection. In very rare cases, it can indicate diabetes, liver or kidney problems. If there is no obvious cause of your child's bad breath and it continues despite the practice of good dental hygiene, take your child to the doctor to rule out any medical problems.
