My 8-year-old child often has bad breath. What should I do?
Disease description:
The child is now eight years old and frequently has bad breath. I plan to take him for treatment to improve the situation. What should I do about my eight-year-old child having frequent bad breath?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Liu Chao
It is common for 8-year-old children to experience bad breath frequently. The following measures are recommended:
1. Improve oral hygiene: Ensure the child maintains good oral hygiene habits. It is recommended to brush teeth in the morning and evening, each time for at least two minutes, and to use dental floss to clean between the teeth. Rinse the mouth promptly after meals to avoid bacterial growth from food residue.
2. Oral examination: If the child already has good oral hygiene habits but bad breath persists, there may be underlying oral conditions such as gingivitis or dental caries that require timely treatment.
3. Dietary adjustment: Avoid excessive consumption of spicy, greasy, or strong-smelling foods such as garlic, raw onions, and stinky tofu. Increase intake of fresh vegetables and fruits to maintain a balanced diet.
4. Indigestion: Indigestion is another common cause of bad breath. If the child shows symptoms of indigestion, such as bloating or abdominal pain, it is recommended to adjust eating habits and use digestive medications under a doctor's guidance.
5. Monitor for additional symptoms: If the bad breath is accompanied by symptoms such as abdominal pain, constipation, or vomiting, it may indicate a gastrointestinal issue, and timely medical evaluation is necessary.
