Your toddler may look like a little angel, but several problems can cause her breath to stink to high heaven. Start with the basics when you are seeking the source and the cure for your child's bad breath. Curing her bad breath may be as simple as a change in her regular diet.
Caused by Decay
Just like adults, your toddler's bad breath could be caused by tooth decay. Baby teeth are susceptible to developing cavities, particularly if you have not been cleaning your child's teeth regularly. If your child has developed cavities, you will need to bring him to a dentist for proper treatment. According to the Columbia University College of Dental Medicine, very young children need assistance for proper brushing and flossing. As a parent, you'll need to brush and floss your toddler's teeth. Use this time to inspect his teeth, and visit the dentist if you suspect any dental decay.
Caused by Food
The food your toddler eats may be the source of her bad breath. Common foods that cause bad breath include cheese, orange juice and soda, according the KidsHealth. Avoiding these and other foods associated with bad breath, such as garlic and onions, will cure your toddler's bad breath if this is the cause. Food may also become caught in your toddler's teeth and create odor. Brushing or flossing her teeth can remove the source of the odor.
Caused by Illness
Something as simple as the common cold can infect the lungs, throat or nasal passages, resulting in bad breath, reports the Columbia University College of Dental Medicine. Help your toddler blow his nose regularly, and keep him hydrated to allow mucus to flow and to flush the infection out of his body. If your child does not have a cold, or if bad breath is chronic despite good dental hygiene, his bad breath could be caused by a more serious condition, such as diabetes or reflux disease. A visit to your physician will determine the underlying cause, and your doctor will prescribe the proper treatment.
