Bad breath, also called halitosis, is something many parents worry about. It is common in kids, but if the problem persists, it might mean that there is a health problem. Bad breath can make kids feel shy and not want to talk to their friends. It is important to know what causes bad breath to help kids stay healthy and feel good about themselves.

Kids do not always take care of their teeth the same way adults do. So they can get bad breath more often. Not brushing or flossing well and eating the wrong foods can cause this problem. Other things like dry mouth, allergies, and sinus infections can also make bad breath worse. Kids love sweet snacks, and these can cause plaque and cavities, which make bad breath too.

Pediatric dentists recommend bringing your child in for a regular check-up at least twice a year. This helps them catch dental problems early, do the treatment, and avoid extensive and expensive procedures. If your child’s bad breath is persistent and not going away, visit a North Scottsdale family dentist today. 

Common causes of bad breath in children 

• Poor oral hygiene. 

Most children do not know how to take proper care of their oral health. One big problem is plaque buildup. Plaque is a sticky layer of bacteria that forms on teeth when food and bacteria mix with saliva. 

The bacteria in plaque break down food and release compounds that make the mouth smell unpleasant. This condition is called halitosis, also known as bad breath. This bad smell comes from between teeth and along the gums, where a toothbrush cannot effectively reach. 

• Dry mouth (xerostomia). 

Dry mouth is one of the causes of bad breath in children. Children experience dry mouth if they do not drink enough fluids, especially on hot days or after exercise. Saliva is important because it helps keep the mouth moist and washes away food and bacteria that can cause tooth decay and gum problems. 

Children who breathe through their mouths, whether due to a stuffy nose or just a habit, may lose more saliva. Certain medications like antihistamines or those for allergies and ADHD, can also reduce saliva and cause dry mouth. 

• Diet and food choices. 

What children eat and drink can affect their breath. Some foods, like garlic and onions, are known to cause bad breath. Spicy foods can also do this because of their strong taste and how they mix with bacteria in the mouth. When kids do not brush properly or rinse their mouth after eating such foods, bad breath can get worse. 

Sugary snacks and drinks are also big culprits of bad breath. The bacteria in the mouth feed on sugar resulting in bad breath. To stop bad breath, it is important to avoid sugary snacks and drinks, especially before bed. This is because the bacteria grow overnight and lead to bad breath in the morning. 

• Allergies and sinus issues. 

When children have allergies, their nasal passages become inflamed. This causes mucus to build up, which can drip down the back of the throat. This postnasal drip can cause bad breath. The mucus contains bacteria that stick to the teeth and gums and release bad-smelling compounds. 

Sinus infections and colds can also make bad breath worse. When their sinuses get infected, they produce more mucus than usual. If the mucus cannot drain properly, it gets collected and allows bacteria to grow. This causes a foul odor to come from the mouth. It is important for parents to take their child to the doctor and dentist when this happens. 

Concerned about your child’s bad breath?

If your child is experiencing a persistent case of bad breath, visit a pediatric dentist immediately. It is important to identify the underlying cause before it gets worse.