Bad Breath in Child: Causes and Prevention

Bad breath in children is very less when compared to that in adults. This however weakens once they start growing. Children usually make fun of other kids who are suffering from halitosis and this may be embarrassing for the parents.

Most of the parents get busy with their work and neglect their children who has the symptoms of bad breath. Children usually suffer from bad breath which is caused in the morning. Bad breath in children is however not an issue to be worried about because it can be treated easily . But parents should definitely take necessary precautions if the condition persists.

Causes of Bad Breath in Children:
Bad breath in children is usually caused due to poor dental care. It may also be caused due to certain medical problems. Bad breath may be caused due to poor saliva flow at night, poor brushing habits of the child. Another cause which often causes bad breath in children is the sucking of the thumb or any other object. Tooth decay and sinus infection are other causes of bad breath in children.

Products which add flavors and sparkles that are used to make brushing easy and fun for kids should be avoided. The commercial toothpastes and mouthwashes use toxins and and poisons, therefore these products should be strictly avoided.

How it is Caused:
The area which is usually affected by bad breath is under the gum line, between the teeth and the back of the tongue. Bad breath in children can be caused due to oral problems, non-oral problems and also due to psychological problems.

The tongue is covered by a layer of epithelial cells, bacteria and blood cells, because of which the problem of bad breath arises. Generally oral epithelial cells can provide a perfect home for more than 100 kinds of bacteria. The problem becomes worse when this bacteria gets stuck in the plaque and on the dorsum area of the tongue.

How to Prevent:
• Parents should educate their children to brush their teeth at least twice a day.
• Parents should help their kids in flossing, if they are below 8 years of age.
• Children should eat food which is rich in fibers and should drink plenty of water.
• The back of the tongue should be brushed with the help of a brush which has soft bristles.