What to do about bad breath in a 7-month-old baby

Jun 17, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

Took the day off to visit my 7-month-old niece. When I picked her up, I noticed a slight bad breath. I've never seen a baby have bad breath before. What should I do about bad breath in a 7-month-old baby?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Guo Huijie
For a 7-month-old baby experiencing bad breath, parents should pay attention to the baby's oral hygiene. Since infants this young cannot brush their teeth independently, parents can gently clean the baby’s mouth using a finger toothbrush at least twice daily to reduce food residue and bacterial buildup. At the same time, adjust the baby’s diet by avoiding foods with strong or pungent odors. If bad breath persists or worsens, parents should consider possible pathological causes such as indigestion or oral inflammation. In such cases, administering probiotic supplements may help improve the intestinal microenvironment and promote digestive health. Additionally, abdominal massage can aid in enhancing gastrointestinal motility and improving digestion and nutrient absorption. Parents should monitor multiple factors, and if the bad breath does not improve, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly so that a healthcare professional can diagnose and treat the baby based on their specific condition.