Children Suffering from Bad Breath

Generally, bad breath is caused by bacteria build-up in the mouth. But with children, there are a few special circumstances that need consideration, which is why the doctors of Bishop & Bishop Dental are ready to provide a thorough examination and diagnosis.
Children need to be taught to brush their tongues, as well as their teeth, so that bacteria can’t feed on the food particles which get caught in the soft, creviced tissue of their papillae. But there’s no easy way to clean the tonsils, which are also a trap for food debris, as well as nasal drip. Dentists can, however, recommend alcohol-free mouthwash. Children inevitably get more sinus infections than adults, providing bacteria with more fodder in the form of nasal drip, but it may be worthwhile to get them tested for allergies and, if they are very small, check to see if there is a foreign object caught in their nasal passages.
Bacteria also build-up easily when the mouth is chronically dry. Dry mouth is a common side-effect of medications, including those given for anxiety and ADHD. If medications which are contributing to bad breath can’t be swapped out, the child may need to try an artificial moisturizer.
David Bishop, DDS and Dorienne Taylor-Bishop, DDS, operate Bishop & Bishop Dental at 8830 Cameron St, #504, Silver Spring, Maryland, 20910. To set up an appointment, call 301-608-9270 or visit Bishop Dental and fill out a contact sheet.