What Causes Bad Breath For Kids

Parents everywhere know the importance of raising their children with good dental habits. There are many long term benefits of proper brushing and flossing including lowering the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. But even in the short term, many adults and children practice oral care to keep their mouths looking and smelling clean.  That is why it can be frustrating as a parent or a kid when dealing with bad breath. Bad breath isn’t just caused by a lack of brushing and flossing. There are actually many factors that may cause bad breath for you or your kids.

Foods That Cause Bad Breath

Everyone knows there are certain foods that cause bad breath. Garlic, onions, and other similar foods can cause bad breath for your kids. Simply washing out your mouth with mouthwash or waiting for time to pass can quickly get rid of bad breath. But it is important to note that bad breath caused by ingesting smelly foods is not a cause for concern.

Dry Mouth & Lack of Saliva

Saliva is an important part of keeping your mouth clean and removing food particles. Breathing through your mouth especially while sleeping can cause dry mouth also known as xerostomia. The best way to counter this is to drink water throughout the day. Certain illnesses like a cold can also cause dry mouth and force you or your kids to need to breathe through their mouths.

Dental Hygiene

Of course, the main cause of bad breath is poor dental hygiene. Food debris that gets stuck in your child’s mouth will cause bad breath if they do not properly brush and floss. It is recommended that children brush twice a day, floss daily, and in some cases use mouthwash to ensure that their mouths stay clean. Bad breath caused by poor dental hygiene is a sign of possible dental decay or gum disease. Tartar buildup also can cause bad breath and is linked to damage to your child’s teeth. One tip is that children also use their toothbrush to brush their tongue because the back of the tongue stores bacteria that can cause bad breath.

Schedule A Dental Appointment

Of course, regular brushing and flossing may not be enough to address all of the dental problems you or your child may be facing. By scheduling a dental appointment with a local children’s dentist you can get your child’s teeth professionally cleaned twice a year. Dental cleanings go a long way in preventing future dental problems. Schedule an appointment with our dentists in Revere to help your kids improve their dental health.