10 Causes of Bad Breath in Kids 

Pew! What is that smell? If you notice your child’s breath smells not so pleasant, it can be concerning. Bad breath, medically termed halitosis, is common, affecting over one-third of kids. Read on to learn the ten most frequent causes of smelly breath in children and how to help promote fresh breath in your household.  

Poor Oral Hygiene 

Poor oral hygiene is the most common cause of bad breath in children. When not removed frequently enough by a toothbrush and floss, bad-breath-causing bacteria can fester in the mouth, producing a sour odor. To maintain optimal oral hygiene and fresh breath, kids should brush their teeth twice daily and floss once a day. Incorporating tongue scraping or antiseptic mouthwash into their routine can further enhance breath freshness. 

Oral Infections 

Approximately 13% of school-aged children have untreated tooth decay. This, along with other oral infections, such as gingivitis, oral thrush, tartar buildup, and mouth ulcers, can make kids’ breath smell funky. Keeping up with regular dental exams for your child is critical to detect and treat these issues early to maintain both their oral health and pleasant breath. 

Dry Mouth 

Saliva washes away plaque, food particles, and bacteria that cause bad breath. However, when a child produces less saliva than normal, the breath may have an unpleasant odor. This condition, known as xerostomia or dry mouth, affects 22% of the population. Encouraging your child to stay well-hydrated can help reduce dry mouth symptoms. Your child’s dentist might also suggest using an over-the-counter rinse or spray to maintain moisture in the mouth. 

Mouth Breathing 

More than 50% of young children are believed to habitually breathe through their mouths instead of their noses. This habit can disrupt saliva flow, preventing it from washing away bacteria that cause bad breath. Treating bad breath due to mouth breathing involves identifying and addressing underlying causes such as nasal congestion, allergies, or anatomical problems like enlarged adenoids or tonsils. 

Foreign Object 

Babies and toddlers are notorious for putting household objects in their mouths, ears, and nostrils. A sudden onset of stinky breath can signal a foreign object is lodged in the nose. If you suspect something is stuck in your child's nose, contact their pediatrician immediately for advice and assistance. 

Diet 

What we eat plays a significant role in how our breath smells. If your child's diet includes a lot of garlic, onions, sugary snacks, carbs, or spicy foods, it could be causing potent breath. However, incorporating crunchy fruits and vegetables into their meals can help combat this issue. These foods stimulate saliva production, which naturally cleanses the mouth to help fight stinky breath. 

Medication 

Some medications have the unfortunate side effect of bad breath. This occurs when a chemical released during the breakdown of the medication in the body emits a sour odor. Be sure to check the list of side effects for any medications your child is taking. If bad breath is listed as a side effect, do not hesitate to seek advice from your pediatrician. 

Dental Appliances 

Dirty oral appliances, such as retainers and braces, are a frequent source of smelly breath. In fact, a study revealed that more than 56% of patients wearing braces experienced increased halitosis levels after starting treatment. Food particles, plaque, and bacteria tend to accumulate on these appliances, leading to unpleasant odors if not cleaned properly. Encourage your child to clean their oral appliance every time they brush their teeth to maintain pleasant breath. 

Health Conditions 

Odorous breath can develop due to various health conditions, including allergies, sinus infections, diabetes, tonsillitis, respiratory infections, and digestive disorders. Your pediatrician can investigate whether any of these conditions are responsible for the unpleasant odor and provide guidance on the best steps forward. 

Stubborn bad breath may concern parents, but it is often manageable with the right intervention. By prioritizing oral hygiene and addressing any underlying health issues, you can help your child maintain fresh breath and overall oral health. If you have concerns about your child's breath or oral health, schedule an appointment with our dental team today.