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Is Your Child’s Breath Stinky? Here’s How to Fix It

by Youth Dental

Is Your Child’s Breath Stinky? Here’s How to Fix It

Reviewed By Dr. Jodi Kuhn

Reading time: 7 minutes

Bad breath, or halitosis in kids, can sometimes rival an adult’s!

While occasional morning breath is normal, persistent foul-smelling breath might signal an underlying issue.

In this blog, we will explore what causes bad breath in kids and how to fix it.

Key Takeaway

You can fix bad breath in kids with good oral hygiene, regular hydration, and professional dental visits. Address the issue early to ensure fresh breath and a healthy smile.

What Causes Halitosis In Kids?

There are a few thinks that can cause bad breath in kids. 

Here are the most common culprits:

1. Food particles stuck in teeth: When food debris remains in your child’s mouth, bacteria feed on it, producing volatile sulfur compounds that cause bad breath.

Sticky and sugary foods like candy or potato chips can be particularly problematic as they cling to teeth longer, giving bacteria more time to grow. Leftover particles that are not removed properly can lead to cavities and gum issues over time.

2. Poor oral hygiene routine: If your child doesn’t brush and floss thoroughly, plaque buildup and bacteria in the oral cavity can lead to a stinky odor.

Not cleaning the tongue—where a significant amount of odor-causing bacteria resides—also contributes to bad breath. Over time, this can also result in hardened plaque or tartar, making oral care even more challenging.

3. Mouth breathing or nasal congestion: Mouth breathing dries out saliva, which usually helps wash away bacteria.

Stuffy nose, runny nose, or swollen tonsils can make this worse. A dry mouth is the perfect environment for bacteria to thrive, causing smelly breath. Nasal congestion or postnasal drip can also lead to bacterial buildup in the throat and nasal passages, contributing to unpleasant breath.

4. Health conditions or infections: Thrush, sinus infections, or acid reflux (gastroesophageal reflux disease) can contribute to halitosis in childhood.

Enlarged tonsils or adenoids that trap food and bacteria can also be a hidden cause of persistent bad breath. Chronic conditions may cause acid and partially digested food to rise into the throat, creating a bad smell and taste.

5. Diet-related causes: Strong spices, sugary foods, and starchy snacks like potato chips promote bacterial growth and contribute to smelly breath in kids.

Foods with strong odors like onions or garlic can linger in the mouth and bloodstream, affecting the smell of breath for hours.

6. Dehydration: A dry mouth reduces saliva flow, allowing odor-causing bacteria to thrive. Saliva plays a key role in keeping the mouth clean by washing away food particles and neutralizing acids. 

If your child doesn’t drink enough water, it affects their saliva production and can make their breath smell worse.

What To Do If Your Child Has Bad Breath Even After Brushing

  • Focus on proper brushing and flossing: Teach your child to brush twice daily and floss once. Demonstrate how to floss gently to remove food particles stuck between teeth. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a child-friendly fluoride toothpaste. Don’t forget the tongue—a common hiding spot for odor-causing bacteria. 
  • Schedule regular dental cleanings: Professional cleanings remove plaque and hardened tartar that home care can’t. These visits are also an opportunity for the dentist to check for tooth decay and cavities, gum disease, or other conditions that might be causing bad breath. Dentists can also provide guidance on brushing techniques and recommend helpful tools like tongue scrapers or water flossers.
  • Encourage hydration: Drinking plenty of water keeps the mouth moist and flushes out bacteria. Pack a refillable water bottle for school and remind your child to sip throughout the day. Avoid sugary drinks like soda or juice, which can exacerbate bad breath by feeding harmful bacteria. Water also helps maintain optimal saliva flow, which naturally cleanses the mouth.
  • Monitor diet: Limit sugary and starchy foods and encourage your child to eat crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples and carrots, which naturally clean teeth and stimulate saliva production. You can also introduce healthy snacks like cheese or yogurt, which help balance oral bacteria.
  • Check for medical conditions: If bad breath persists, consult a doctor. Medical issues like postnasal drip, sinus infections, or digestive problems might be involved. Chronic conditions such as tonsillitis, adenoid infections, or acid reflux might require targeted treatment to resolve the issue. Don’t hesitate to ask your pediatrician or dentist for an evaluation.
  • Check medication side effects: Check with your pharmacist to find out if bad breath is a side effect of any medication they are taking. Make sure to inform your dentist of any medications your child is taking.

When To Seek Professional Care

If bad breath persists despite good oral hygiene, it’s time for professional help.

Early intervention can prevent minor issues from becoming bigger problems down the line. They can also provide tips to address any unique dental challenges your child may face.

Book A Visit With Our Kids Dentist In Denver!

Halitosis in kids isn’t just about stinky breath—it’s a sign that something isn’t quite right.

Bad breath is often preventable and manageable. With the right habits and care, you can help your child maintain fresh breath and a confident smile.

Our kids dentists specialize in children’s dental care and can guide you through the best practices for maintaining your child’s oral health.

Call the location nearest you to schedule an appointment:

📍Denver Youth Dentistry and Orthodontics: 1400 Grove Street, Denver, CO 80204 | (303) 825-2295

📍Aurora Youth Dentistry and Orthodontics: 14251 E. 6th Avenue, Aurora, CO 80011 | (303) 343-3133

📍Thornton Youth Dentistry and Orthodontics: 550 E. Thornton Parkway, Suite 240A, Thornton, CO 80229 | (303) 280-8878

📍Hampden Youth Dentistry and Orthodontics: 7400 East Hampden Ave. Unit C1, Denver, CO 80231 | (720) 826-3694

FAQs

Does thrush cause bad breath in babies?

Yes, thrush can lead to bad breath in babies due to the fungal infection in the mouth.

Does teething cause bad breath in babies?

Yes, teething can sometimes result in bad breath as it may cause increased drooling and bacterial buildup.

Can dehydration cause bad breath in children?

Yes, dehydration reduces saliva flow, allowing odor-causing bacteria to thrive.

Can diet impact my child’s breath?

Absolutely! Sugary, starchy, or strong-smelling foods can contribute to bad breath.

What medical conditions can cause halitosis in kids?

Chronic sinus infections, tonsillitis, acid reflux, and thrush are common causes of bad breath in kids.

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