Halitosis in Children

What Is Halitosis In Children?

Halitosis in children is caused by bacteria that produce sulfur compounds that are foul smelling and result in bad breath. Bad breath can be a sign of health problems or it can be a problem that can be easily solved. In either case, halitosis in children can be embarrassing. Parents normally notice the halitosis in children before the child knows that it is a problem. Like anyone, it is difficult for children to notice that they have bad breath. Other children may notice the bad breath and tease the child or isolate them. Curing halitosis in children can improve their health and their social life.

The most common cause of halitosis in children is improper tooth care. A mouth that still has food particles between the teeth, on the tongue or on the gums, can produce bacteria that cause bad breath. Halitosis in children can be caused by problems with the child’s teeth, sinus congestion or dry mouth. A build-up on the tongue, teeth or in the nose can cause bad breath. Infections in the throat such as tonsillitis can result in halitosis in children. An infection of the tongue or an upper respiratory infection can also cause bad breath. An infection in the digestive system, gastritis, can cause halitosis in children. There are some rare cases where the underlying cause of halitosis in children is a serious health problem such as kidney disease or liver failure. A child with diabetes may have bad breath with an acetone odor.

Brushing teeth more regularly can cure simple halitosis in children. Flossing is recommended to remove any debris from between the teeth. A tongue scraper or brushing the tongue can remove any topical bacteria that contribute to halitosis in children. In addition, there are tablets and mouth washes available that dye the teeth before brushing. This allows the child or a parent to see that brushing is being done properly.

Halitosis in children with gum disease or dental problems may be able to be solved by a dentist who can diagnose and correct the problems causing the bad breath. Impacted teeth or teeth with cavities can have a mouth odor. Many adults are treated for halitosis with anti-bacterials. These are not used as often for halitosis in children because children can’t tolerate medications as well.

There are natural, over-the-counter products available that are safe to treat halitosis in children. Home remedies include brushing after every meal, rinsing with hydrogen peroxide and gargling with baking soda.

Other remedies for halitosis in children include using water, food, or herbs. One remedy is drinking a cup of tea without sugar, chewing mint leaves, chewing sunflower seeds or eating apples. If the problem is dry mouth and less saliva to remove mucus and bacteria, then drinking more water on a regular basis can help to solve that kind of halitosis in children. Some say that eating yogurt for six weeks can cure halitosis in children because of the good bacteria that it provides.