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Not only in adults, but bad breath can also occur in children. Usually, this bad breath arises because children do not maintain the cleanliness of their teeth and mouth. But besides that, there are some diseases or other conditions that can also cause symptoms of bad breath in children.
Bad breath or halitosis is a condition when the oral cavity produces an unpleasant odor. In addition to bad breath, this condition also usually appears along with other signs and symptoms, such as discomfort in the mouth, bitter or sour taste in the mouth, dry mouth, and white tongue.
Causes of Bad Breath in Children to Watch Out for
Bad breath occurs when bacteria in the teeth and mouth accumulate, then the sulfur compounds released by the bacteria make breathing unpleasant. Several things can trigger bad breath, namely:
1. Cleanliness of teeth and mouth that is not maintained
When your mouth is dirty, the bacteria that live in your mouth will process food scraps that are between your teeth and gums, plaque, tongue, or on the surface of the tonsils. This can produce gases and substances that trigger bad breath, especially if food scraps accumulate over a long period of time.
2. Dry mouth
Dry mouth or xerostomia occurs because salivary glands in the mouth are unable to produce enough saliva. In fact, saliva is needed to moisturize the mouth, neutralize the acids produced by bacteria, and wash away dead cells that accumulate on the tongue, gums, and cheeks out of the mouth. If not washed, these cells can cause bad breath.
Dry mouth can also occur due to side effects from various medications, such as cold medicines (antihistamines and decongestants), anti-convulsions, hypo-allergies, and medications for asthma. If the child is often given the drug, then he can experience bad breath.
3. Breathe through the mouth
Bad breath in children can occur because of the habit of breathing through the mouth. For example when the child is sleeping with his mouth open and when his nose is blocked making breathing difficult.
Because saliva will be difficult to produce when the mouth is open or open. Over time, the mouth will become dry which triggers bad breath.
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4. Problems with teeth
If your child has problems with teeth, such as cavities, tartar, and dental abscesses, you should be alert. Because interference with the teeth can be a cause of bad breath in children.
5. Certain diseases
Bad breath can also be a sign of health problems in children. Some diseases that can cause bad breath are:
- Diarrhea.
- Cancer.
- Gastric acid disease (GERD).
- Tonsillitis.
- Respiratory diseases, such as pneumonia and bronchitis.
- Sinusitis.
- Mumps.
- Disorders of the liver or kidneys.
- Diabetes.
6. Foreign body on the nose
Foreign objects caught in the nose can cause bad breath. This often happens to children or toddlers who often put things in their mouth or nose.
7. Food
Spicy foods and foods that smell and have a pungent taste, such as onions and garlic, can cause bad breath in children.
Read Also : Tips to Eliminate Bad Breath After Consuming Stingful Scented Foods
The Right Solution to Overcome Bad Breath in Children
Handling bad breath in children is not much different from adults. Bad breath can be overcome by simple ways, such as:
- Brush your teeth and clean your tongue twice a day. Don't forget to replace the child's toothbrush every 2 to 3 months.
- Gargle with a mouthwash specifically for children once a day. But remember, mouthwash should not be given to children under 6 years.
- Avoid the consumption of spicy foods and foods that smell pungent, such as onions.
- Drink plenty of water.
- Chew low-sugar gum.
If the natural methods above do not succeed in eliminating bad breath experienced by your child, you are encouraged to bring your child to consult a dentist. The dentist will examine to find out the cause and provide appropriate treatment. If necessary, the dentist will refer Little to the ENT specialist.
