From kids to adults, many individuals have issues with bad breath. This problem often occurs when one disregards daily dental care and instead relies only on professional treatment to preserve their smile. Luckily, your child can prevent unpleasant odors from the mouth with the following oral hygiene habits.

How Can Your Child Make Their Breath Smell Good?

1. Brush and Floss Regularly

Bacteria can accumulate in the mouth due to food fragments left in between and on the teeth. Without a regular dental care routine, germs release sulfur compounds that cause bad breath. Thus, your child should brush their teeth twice a day, in the morning and at night. Encourage them to floss as well, which should be done at least once a day. This practice will prevent food from getting stuck between the teeth.  Flossing also disrupts the  bacterial colonies living between the teeth so they can't flourish there and create odor and eventually cavities.

2. Clean the Tongue

Most bacteria usually remain on tooth surfaces. However, odor-releasing microorganisms can also live on the tongue. 

To combat bad breath, make sure to incorporate tongue-brushing into your child's dental care regimen. Teach them to brush lightly from back to front or use a scraper to get rid of germs. For a clean mouth, they should perform this process at least once every day.

3. Use Mouthwash 

Although mouthwash alone won't eliminate bad breath, it is an excellent supplement to your child's dental care regimen. It assists in removing food particles that brushing and flossing were unable to remove. However, this product is not meant for children below age 6, as they might accidentally swallow it.

If your kid is old enough, have them finish their oral care routine with a mouthwash that has therapeutic components. For example, fluoride-containing antiseptic mouthwash destroys bacteria while also preventing tooth decay. 

4. Avoid Smelly Foods

Eating meals with excessive amounts of garlic, onions, and fish can worsen bad breath. Your child should avoid these food groups as they leave out a strong odor in the mouth even after they brush their teeth. Drinks such as juices and sodas can also contribute to bad breath. They fuel the growth of bacteria, which can contribute to bad breath. 

If you're concerned about your child's bad breath, Pedodontic Associates in Hawaii can help you find a solution. For over  40 years, they have assisted children and teens throughout Oahu and Maui, providing pediatric dentistry and dental emergency services. For an appointment, call (808) 487-7933 for the Aiea office, (808) 735-1733 for the Honolulu location, or (808) 877-0066 for Kahului practice. You can also visit their website to learn more about their services.