Oral care in children should start at an early age. Regular brushing of teeth, cleaning between teeth and using the correct toothbrush is an essential step in preventing cavities and other oral health problems. Parents should give their children the habit of brushing their teeth regularly and attract their children’s attention by making this process fun. It is possible to make children enjoy this routine by using colored toothpaste, soft-bristled toothbrushes and toothbrushing songs. Correct eating habits are also of great importance to prevent bad breath in children. Avoiding sugary and acidic foods helps protect children’s teeth.
What causes bad breath in children?
It is important to see a dentist first to determine the factor causing your child’s bad breath. The dentist will evaluate your child’s oral health and diagnose the cause of bad breath. Bad breath in children can be caused by various reasons, just like in adults. The most common causes of bad breath in children are:
- Inadequate oral hygiene
- gum diseases
- Tooth decay
- tonsil stones
- dry mouth
- Some foods and drinks, such as garlic, onions, meat, dairy products, coffee and alcohol
- Some diseases such as diabetes, kidney disease, liver disease, digestive system diseases
Bad breath can sometimes be a symptom of a more serious health problem. It is important to see a doctor if you notice any changes in your child’s bad breath.
How to cure bad breath in children?
Bad breath in children can often be caused by poor oral hygiene or other health problems. “What is good for bad breath in children?” To answer the question, you can pay attention to the following methods:
- Encourage children to brush their teeth regularly. Brushing your teeth at least twice a day, in the morning and at night, can prevent bad breath by cleaning bacterial plaque.
- Cleaning between the teeth prevents dental plaque from accumulating and can reduce bad breath. Teach children proper flossing or get advice from your dentist.
- Bacteria accumulating on the surface of the tongue can also cause bad breath. Teach children how to clean their tongues or help them use tongue cleaning devices.
- Consumption of sugary and acidic foods can increase bacterial growth in the mouth. You can reduce bad breath by teaching children healthy eating habits.
- Drinking water cleans bacteria in the mouth and reduces bad breath by increasing saliva production.
- Take your children to the dentist regularly. The dentist can detect possible oral health problems at an early stage and take treatment measures.
If bad breath persists and other measures are not effective, there may be an underlying health problem. In this case, it is important to see a pedodontist (child dentist) or pediatrician.