7 Important Tips for Baby Oral Health

Babies and toddlers are a bundle of joy. They bring life to any home with their cute human forms. But what happens when while playing and cuddling with your little one, you smell a whiff of stinky bad breath, and it’s not coming from you? This may come as a surprise to some, but even the most adorable children can suffer from bad breath. And because they’re still too young to take preventive measures on their own, it’s up to all parents to make the necessary remedies to help combat bad breath.

Like adults, bad breath in young children can be caused by different factors. It can be due to poor oral hygiene, tartar buildup and cavities, dehydration, or a throat infection. Thumb sucking and using pacifiers can also contribute to bad breath in young children. To combat this problem, it would be best to follow some or all of these tips to prevent bad breath in your little ones.

• Make sure your child’s teeth and mouth are cleaned regularly. It’s never too early to start teaching them how to brush their teeth properly using a soft-bristled toothbrush and children’s toothpaste. Check to see if your child is doing it right and point out the areas where he needs to brush thoroughly. By the time she’s a little older, you can introduce the floss.
• Limit your child’s sugar intake to reduce the chance of cavities. Don’t let a bottle full of milk or juice go into your mouth while you sleep. The sugar contained in these drinks will also help in the appearance of cavities.
• Be sure to visit the dentist for a regular dental checkup. Many people think that a visit to the dentist does not have to start when their children are young. You can encourage them to join you by explaining the importance of clean teeth and also by giving them treats, like a new toy or a sticker.
• Be careful with medicines for children too. Some medications contain sugar that can remain on the teeth and also cause cavities.
• Prioritize your child’s dental health by asking your dentists about preventive measures and treatments for cavities. They may suggest giving fluoride applications and dental sealants to prevent bad breath caused by cavities.
• Many children consider brushing their teeth to be a terrible activity. Try to make them feel encouraged and motivated to clean their teeth by transforming it into a fun activity. You can ask them to choose a creatively designed toothbrush and a flavored toothpaste that they like.
• Consult a pediatrician in case an underlying medical condition is the reason for bad breath. It may be due to sinus problems or gastroesophageal reflux. Ask your doctor about treatments.