Bad breath (halitosis) is not a problem reserved exclusively for adults. Many children can experience this often embarrassing condition. In fact, the majority of kids have at least a detectable degree of unpleasant breath first thing in the morning. There are several factors that may contribute to bad breath in young people. Luckily there are many ways to remedy the problem.
Common Causes of Bad Breath in Children
In the vast majority of children (85 percent), bad breath is caused by an oral source. The regions that are most often affected are the areas between the teeth, under the gum line and in back of the tongue.
The reason most kids have bad breath upon wakening is because saliva is not produced during sleep and muscles in the mouth are in a relaxed state. This oxygen-free area sets the stage for the collection of anaerobic bacteria.
If children are not brushing and flossing their teeth on a regular basis, old food may create a perfect breeding ground for the bacteria that causes decay and foul breath.
Other Causes of Bad Breath
Another common cause of bad breath in children is postnasal drip. The condition may be due to frequent colds, allergies or persistent sinus infections.
Sometimes psychological problems can trigger bad breath.
Although the vast majority of cases of bad breath in children can be easily remedied, it's very important for a doctor to examine a child when proper oral hygiene fails to cure the condition.
Remedies for Bad Breath in Children
Preventing and treating bad breath in children is a relatively simple and straightforward process. It starts with good oral hygiene. Make sure your kids brush and floss their teeth daily. It's also important to clean the back of the tongue with a toothbrush and rinse the mouth.
Don't let children use mouthwash, because many contain alcohol and can be harmful to children if swallowed.
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