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Understanding Halitosis in Children

smiling boy in the dental office holding a big toy tooth

Halitosis, commonly known as bad breath, is a concern that affects individuals of all ages, including children. While it’s often brushed off as a minor issue, persistent bad breath in kids can be a sign of underlying dental or health problems. Mitzi Morris, DMD, located in Roswell, Georgia, offers expert insight into the common causes of halitosis in children and the importance of addressing this issue.

Reasons for Bad Breath in Kids

Just like adults, persistent bad breath in your child can be a result of various factors, including:

1. Poor Oral Hygiene

The most common cause of bad breath in children is poor oral hygiene. Food particles that remain in the mouth can produce an unpleasant odor as they break down. Bacteria that build up on the teeth, tongue, and gums can also contribute to bad breath. Ensuring that children brush their teeth twice a day and floss daily is crucial in combating halitosis.

2. Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)

Saliva plays a vital role in maintaining oral health, including neutralizing acids produced by bacteria and washing away food particles. A condition called xerostomia, where the salivary glands don’t make enough saliva, can lead to dry mouth, which in turn can cause bad breath. Encouraging children to stay hydrated and chew sugar-free gum can stimulate saliva production.

3. Oral Infections

Cavities and gum disease can cause halitosis in children. These conditions are the result of plaque buildup and can lead to infection with a distinct odor. Regular dental check-ups at Mitzi Morris, DMD, can help detect and treat these issues early on.

4. Foreign Objects

Younger children often insert small objects into their noses, which can go unnoticed. A foreign object lodged in a nostril can cause a foul odor. If you suspect this might be the case, it’s important to see a pediatrician or dentist.

5. Diet

Certain foods, like onions and garlic, can contribute to bad breath. While these odors are temporary, they can be unpleasant. A balanced diet with fewer odor-causing foods can help reduce bad breath in children.

6. Medical Conditions

In some cases, bad breath can be a sign of underlying medical conditions such as allergies, sinus infections, tonsillitis, or gastrointestinal issues. If your child’s bad breath persists despite good oral hygiene, it may be time to consult a healthcare professional.

Preventive Measures and Treatments

Mitzi Morris, DMD, emphasizes the importance of preventive care in managing halitosis in children. Here are some key strategies:

Regular Dental Check-Ups

Routine dental visits are essential for maintaining oral health. These appointments allow for professional cleaning and early detection of any oral health issues that could cause bad breath.

Proper Oral Hygiene Education

Teaching children the correct way to brush and floss is fundamental. The dental team at Mitzi Morris, DMD, takes the time to educate both children and parents about effective oral hygiene practices.

Hydration and Healthy Diet

Encouraging children to drink plenty of water and maintain a balanced diet can significantly impact their oral health and breath quality.

Addressing Underlying Health Issues

If bad breath is due to a health condition, treating that condition is key. Mitzi Morris, DMD, works in conjunction with pediatricians to ensure a holistic approach to your child’s health.

Schedule a Dental Visit to Freshen Your Child’s Breath

Halitosis in children is a common issue that can often be resolved with proper oral hygiene and regular dental care. Understanding the underlying causes is crucial in effectively addressing this problem. Mitzi Morris, DMD in Roswell offers comprehensive dental care for children, ensuring that every aspect of their oral health is taken care of. For more information and to schedule an appointment, visit their website.

Posted on behalf of Mitzi D. Morris

1297 Hembree Rd Suite 202
Roswell, GA 30076

Phone: 678-459-2990

Monday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Tuesday: 7:00 am - 5:00 pm
Wednesday: 7:00 am - 5:00 pm
Thursday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Friday: 8:00 am - 3:00 pm

Our Patient Reviews

Mitzi D. Morris, DMD, PC

4.8/ 5.0

Based on 44 reviews

  • Dr. Morris is an excellent dentist. Her ability to relate to her patients makes her a stand-out amongst those in her profession. She practices dentistry with superior technique and care. Her staff is friendly, helpful, and accommodating. I feel she hires only the best! One special mention: I suffer from panic attacks at times- along with claustrophobia. Dr. Morris is the first dentist I have ever had who helped calm my fears. Thus, my experience exceeded expectations! Great service!

    Cathy Q
  • Definitely would recommend Dr. Morris to anyone. She has been my dentist for over 8 years! Dr. Morris is extremely personable and is serious about the completing the best care possible. Great established dental team! Very accommodating to your schedule.

    Kelly T
  • Great and very educational experience. Compared to my last two dentists this experience blows them both out of the water. The staff is very friendly, and very helpful. I had to go in for a total of four visits a few weeks apart from each other. They made me feel very comfortable the entire time and kept making sure I was pleased. Getting a deep cleaning went very smoothly. It was also brought to my attention that the way I was flossing was incorrect. And have since changed methods. I worked specifically with Dr. Morris. She was very nice, and took the time to explain things. Which is a huge plus for me. Dr. Morris and the staff members worked effortlessly together. I was comfortable enough to sit back and relax, strangely enough, while having cavities drilled and fillings put in. Billing and scheduling appointments, as well as follow up for confirmation of upcoming appointments was very easy. I will say my favorite part of the experience was how friendly of an environment the staff has created. That alone is deserving of a 5 star review, and the rest is honestly icing on the cake. I highly recommend this practice on all fronts and will continue using them!

    Eric F
  • I transferred from a long-term and very good relationship with my former dentist because of a move, and I was a little apprehensive about a new dentist. Dr. Morris has been great. She is friendly, patient-concerned and the office is new, comfortable and clean. Everyone seems to enjoy working there. I feel like I'm in good hands!

    Christopher P
  • Dr. Morris and her staff are very professional. Additionally, she as well as her staff have an excellent "bedside manner." The office is new and well equipped. If one has an appointment and an earlier one opens up, Dr. Morris offers it to her patients as she did with my last appointment.

    David G
  • I have never met a staff so nice and charming. This staff will make you feel comfortable and relaxed in Dr. Morris's Spa like office and everyone is professional and approachable too. Andrea R. explained the process of my appointment and procedures and is definitely a highly-educated and thorough dental hygenist -- SHE IS A ROCKSTAR. I'm so glad that Dr. Morris and her dental team have been my "go-to" for the last 5 years, and I wont be going anywhere else! Overall - A++ Dr. Morris...highly recommended to my family and friends!!!

    Adam O
  • I've been a patient of Dr. Mitzi Morris for many years, and recommend her without reservation. The office is modern. clean and spacious. The staff has always been welcoming and very helpful. And the women who work for her as dental technicians are fantastic; they do a professional and effective deep cleaning, but with a careful, gentle touch. It is clear to me that Dr. Morris reads her professional journals and upgrades her practice to stay very current with the latest best practices in dentistry. (I have had some dentists who stopped updating their practices after leaving dental school!) With Dr. Morris you can count on receiving the very latest dental technology. Her prices are very fair, and I have never been surprised by an unexpected cost or had problems with insurance not covering services rendered.

    Bruce C
  • I have never experienced an office so down to earth, so outgoing and so willing to satisfy. If you've grown to dread the dentist then lay down your sword and give this office a shot.

    Marc Mamane

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Contact Us

Phone

678-459-2990

Office Hours

Monday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Tuesday: 7:00 am - 5:00 pm
Wednesday: 7:00 am - 5:00 pm
Thursday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Friday: 8:00 am - 3:00 pm

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Address

1297 Hembree Rd Suite 202
Roswell, GA 30076

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