5 Primary Causes of Toddler Bad Breath

Bad breath or halitosis in toddlers can tend to puzzle and scare parents because they generally think it only occurs in adults. Unfortunately, that's not true. The following are some reasons why toddler bad breath can occur.

Tartar Build-up/ Inadequate Dental Hygiene

Tartar can build due to poor dental hygiene with tartar accumulation and development of gingivitis. And, leftover food particles can cause breath odor even in healthy children. Bacterial accumulation reacts with saliva resulting in unpleasant breath odor. Where proper dental care is severely lacking, oral abscesses may also occur while teething.

Thumb Sucking

A toddler may even develop bad breath when thumb sucking. This favorite activity tends to dry out the mouth and creates a perfect environment for odor-causing bacteria to grow and thrive. Halitosis may also occur when the toddler uses a pacifier or sucks on a toy or blanket.

Throat Infections

Other causes of toddler bad breath include throat infections. Here, bacteria and viruses may result in inflammation of the tonsils (tonsillitis) in addition to strep throat. A pediatrician may additionally check your child's nose to see if your child has a foreign body, like a small piece of food, in one of the nostrils. The symptoms may typically be breath odor or constant runny nose. Even a sinus infection or upper respiratory infection like bronchitis can cause bad breath.

Moreover, some children may suffer foods reflux, or regurgitation and have a foul breath odor. However, if this were the perpetrator, your little one would probably complain of painful sensations after eating.

Childhood Disease

Sometimes bad breath is noticeable due to childhood disease. According to The Baby Center, childhood diabetes is the most prevalent disease-related cause for bad breath and presents as high blood sugar, dehydration, and a sweetish bad breath. Surprisingly, an overly sweet fragrant breath in children may also be a sign of serious illness and should be quickly addressed.

Dehydration

When a baby's bad breath isn't caused by underlying conditions, the most likely cause is dehydration. Dehydration easily occurs in children and may follow from inadequate fluid intake especially during hot dry climate conditions or overzealous play without taking a drink of water. Normally, consistent dental hygiene will easily remedy the problem.

The following additional common sense solutions help eliminates a toddler's bad breath. Ensure that your toddler receives adequate fluid intake. This'll address the dehydration issue. Help your little one brush correctly and for the correct length of time. Use a timer if toy like. Of course consult with your toddler's dentist and get regular check ups.

To control bacterial growth in the toddler's mouth, make sure that the child's hands are thoroughly washed. Also, try to discourage the child from sucking on toys or un-sterilized pacifiers, or other objects. At least try to keep them as sterile as possible and clean frequently.