Halitosis in Children

The Oyster Bay Family Dentists serve patients of all ages with all sorts of problems, including halitosis. Bad breath isn’t just a problem for adults, and while it is often caused by lack of proper brushing, there are some other common reasons for it in children which our dentists may need to investigate.

Dental information for children heavily emphasizes tooth brushing, but it is important for people to brush their tongues, as well. The tongue is an environment bacteria easily grow in, as are the tonsils, and bacteria growth in these areas will cause a bad smell. Bacteria also multiply quickly when the child has an oral or sinus infection, such as a cold sore or nasal drip. Foreign objects stuck up a child’s nose also trigger nasal drip, supplying bacteria with a food source.

Saliva has an important role in washing out bacteria, so children with dry mouth (xerostomia) are also at increased risk for halitosis. This group of children includes those who breathe through their mouths, children who don’t stay hydrated, and children on medications for anxiety and ADHD which often cause dry mouth as a side effect. Sugar-free gum is a favorite trick of dentists’ to stimulate new saliva production.

Drs. Denise VeyVoda and Robert G. West operate The Oyster Bay Family Dentists at 123 South Street, Oyster Bay, New York, 11771. To schedule an appointment, call 516-922-5730 or visit OysterBayDentists.com and fill out a contact sheet.