Have you noticed that your child regularly has bad breath? Bad breath can be caused by a variety of things, such as seasonal allergies, dry mouth due to certain medications, a foreign body in the nasal passages, sinus infections, and tonsillitis. Bad breath can also indicate other serious issues, like a respiratory tract infection, GI issues, diabetes, or oral cancer.
If your child does not have an infection or underlying health issue, they likely just need better oral hygiene! Have them follow these tips to improve their oral care routine.
- Brush Twice a Day for Two Minutes Each Time
- Floss Every Day
- Clean the Tongue
Your child should gently brush their teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush twice a day for two minutes each time. If they have a difficult time using a manual toothbrush, invest in a kid-friendly electric toothbrush. Electric toothbrushes take a lot of the “work” out of brushing.
String flossing using a C-shape to scrape each tooth removes food particles and plaque from between the teeth and from under the gums.
The tongue is often neglected during at-home oral care. Along with daily brushing and flossing, remind your child to brush their tongue back to front and side to side.
Pediatric Dentistry in Austin, TX
If you’re having difficulty pinpointing the cause of your child’s bad breath, schedule an appointment with our team here at Austin Pearls Pediatric Dentistry. We offer comprehensive dentistry for infants, children, and teenagers.
Our compassionate team has extensive experience accommodating dental anxiety and treating a variety of oral health issues, from dental emergencies to gum disease. We also speak Spanish if you or your child are more comfortable communicating in Spanish.
Contact us today! We look forward to seeing you at Austin Pearls Pediatric Dentistry soon.