Bad Breath in Children: A Comprehensive Guide by Dr. Yasmin Kottait at myPediaClinic Dubai

Introduction to Bad Breath in Children

Bad breath, medically known as halitosis, is not just an adult problem. Many children experience bad breath at some point, and while it is often easily remedied, it can sometimes signal underlying health issues that require attention. For parents in Dubai, understanding the causes of bad breath in children and knowing when to seek professional help is essential for maintaining their child’s oral and overall health.

At myPediaClinic Dubai, Dr. Yasmin Kottait, our experienced pediatric dentist, regularly helps families address concerns about children’s bad breath. With her specialized training in pediatric dental care and her gentle, child-friendly approach, Dr. Yasmin helps parents understand the root causes of halitosis and develops effective treatment plans tailored to each child’s needs.

Bad breath in children can be particularly distressing because it may affect a child’s self-esteem and social interactions. Children may be teased by peers or become self-conscious about speaking closely with others. Additionally, persistent bad breath can indicate oral health problems that, if left untreated, could lead to more serious complications.

This comprehensive guide will explore the various causes of bad breath in children, from simple factors like diet and hydration to more complex issues like sinus infections and dental decay. We will discuss how to identify when bad breath is a cause for concern, effective treatment approaches, and practical prevention strategies that Dubai parents can implement at home. With the right knowledge and care, you can help your child maintain fresh breath and a healthy mouth.

Understanding Halitosis in Children

Before diving into causes and treatments, it is helpful to understand what halitosis actually is and how it develops. This knowledge helps parents at myPediaClinic better identify and address their children’s bad breath issues.

What Is Halitosis?

Halitosis is the medical term for bad breath, defined as an unpleasant odor emanating from the mouth. While occasional bad breath is normal, especially upon waking (morning breath), persistent or severe halitosis may indicate an underlying problem that needs attention.

How Bad Breath Develops

Bad breath primarily develops when bacteria in the mouth break down food particles, dead cells, and other organic matter. This breakdown process produces volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs), which are the primary source of the foul odor we recognize as bad breath. The most common VSCs include:

• Hydrogen sulfide: Produces a rotten egg smell
• Methyl mercaptan: Has a sulfurous, cabbage-like odor
• Dimethyl sulfide: Creates a sweet, unpleasant smell

The tongue, especially its back portion, harbors the most bacteria responsible for producing these compounds. Deep grooves and papillae on the tongue surface provide an ideal environment for bacteria to accumulate.

Types of Bad Breath in Children

Transient Bad Breath

This temporary form of bad breath comes and goes based on factors like food consumption, hydration levels, or time of day. Morning breath is a classic example of transient bad breath.

Persistent Bad Breath

When bad breath continues throughout the day despite good oral hygiene, it may indicate an underlying oral health issue or medical condition that requires professional attention.

Pseudo-Halitosis

Sometimes children (or parents) perceive bad breath that is not actually present or is not noticeable to others. This can occur due to anxiety or heightened awareness of breath odor.

Why Children Are Particularly Susceptible

Several factors make children more prone to bad breath:

• Developing motor skills make thorough brushing and flossing challenging
• Children may not understand the importance of oral hygiene
• Mouth breathing during sleep or due to allergies is common in children
• Children may not drink enough water throughout the day
• Higher incidence of respiratory infections and enlarged tonsils/adenoids
• Some children are picky eaters with diets high in sugary foods

Common Causes of Bad Breath in Children

Bad breath in children can stem from numerous causes, ranging from simple lifestyle factors to underlying medical conditions. Dr. Yasmin Kottait at myPediaClinic Dubai evaluates each child comprehensively to identify the specific cause or combination of causes affecting their breath.

Oral Health-Related Causes

Poor Oral Hygiene

The most common cause of bad breath in children is inadequate brushing and flossing. When food particles remain in the mouth, bacteria break them down, producing foul-smelling compounds. Children often miss areas while brushing, particularly the back teeth and tongue.

Dental Cavities

Tooth decay creates holes where food and bacteria accumulate. These areas are difficult to clean and become sources of bad breath. Active decay can produce a distinctive unpleasant odor.

Gum Disease

Even children can develop gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease. Inflamed, bleeding gums harbor bacteria that produce foul-smelling compounds. Without treatment, gum disease worsens and breath odor intensifies.

Tongue Coating

A white or yellowish coating on the tongue indicates bacterial accumulation. The tongue’s rough surface provides an ideal habitat for odor-causing bacteria, especially toward the back of the tongue.

Oral Infections

Abscesses, mouth ulcers, or other oral infections can cause significant bad breath due to bacterial activity and tissue breakdown.

Respiratory and ENT Causes

Sinus Infections

Sinusitis causes mucus accumulation in the nasal passages and throat. This mucus provides a breeding ground for bacteria, and the resulting infection produces a foul odor that can be detected on the breath.

Tonsillitis and Tonsil Stones

Inflamed or infected tonsils contribute to bad breath. Tonsil stones (tonsilloliths), which are calcified accumulations of debris in tonsil crypts, are particularly notorious for causing severe halitosis.

Enlarged Adenoids

Large adenoids can obstruct nasal breathing, forcing children to breathe through their mouths. This leads to dry mouth and promotes bacterial growth. Additionally, adenoids can harbor infections.

Postnasal Drip

Allergies, colds, and sinus conditions cause mucus to drip down the back of the throat. This mucus is rich in proteins that bacteria break down, producing bad breath.

Lifestyle and Behavioral Causes

Foreign Objects in the Nose

Young children sometimes insert small objects into their noses, such as beads, food, or small toy parts. A foreign object stuck in the nasal passage causes infection and discharge, resulting in a foul smell from the nose and mouth.

Thumb Sucking and Pacifier Use

Extended thumb sucking or pacifier use can affect oral development and create conditions favorable for bacterial growth.

Mouth Breathing

Children who breathe through their mouths, whether due to habit, allergies, or nasal obstruction, experience chronic dry mouth. Reduced saliva flow allows bacteria to thrive.

Poor Oral Hygiene as a Primary Cause of Bad Breath

The leading cause of bad breath in children is inadequate oral hygiene. Understanding how poor hygiene leads to halitosis helps parents at myPediaClinic address this preventable problem effectively.

How Poor Hygiene Causes Bad Breath

When children do not brush and floss properly, several processes contribute to bad breath:

Food Particle Accumulation

Food debris remaining between teeth and along gum lines begins to decompose. Bacteria feed on these particles, producing volatile sulfur compounds as byproducts. Particularly odorous are protein-rich foods that break down into sulfur-containing amino acids.

Plaque Buildup

Plaque is a sticky bacterial film that constantly forms on teeth. Without regular removal through brushing and flossing, plaque accumulates and provides a home for billions of odor-causing bacteria.

Tongue Bacteria

The tongue’s rough surface harbors significant bacterial populations. Children often neglect to clean their tongues, allowing bacteria to flourish in the deep grooves and papillae, especially toward the back of the tongue.

Gum Inflammation

Poor oral hygiene leads to gingivitis, where gums become inflamed and may bleed. The bacteria responsible for gum inflammation also produce foul-smelling compounds.

Common Hygiene Mistakes Children Make

• Rushing through brushing: Children often brush for only 30 seconds instead of the recommended two minutes
• Missing areas: Back teeth, inner surfaces, and the gum line are commonly neglected
• Ignoring the tongue: Most children do not brush or scrape their tongues
• Not flossing: Many children skip flossing entirely, leaving plaque between teeth
• Using ineffective technique: Aggressive horizontal brushing rather than gentle circular or vertical motions
• Using old toothbrushes: Worn bristles are less effective at cleaning

Solutions for Improved Oral Hygiene

Dr. Yasmin Kottait recommends these strategies to improve children’s oral hygiene:

• Supervise brushing until age 7-8 to ensure thorough cleaning
• Use a timer or brushing app to ensure adequate brushing time
• Teach proper technique with gentle circular motions
• Make tongue cleaning part of the routine
• Introduce flossing as soon as teeth touch
• Replace toothbrushes every 3 months or when bristles fray
• Use age-appropriate, fluoride toothpaste
• Schedule regular dental check-ups at myPediaClinic

Dry Mouth and Its Effects on Children’s Breath

Dry mouth, or xerostomia, is a significant contributor to bad breath in children. Saliva plays a crucial role in maintaining oral health and fresh breath, so when saliva production decreases, problems arise.

The Importance of Saliva

Saliva performs several vital functions:

• Cleansing: Saliva continuously washes away food particles and bacteria
• Neutralizing acids: Saliva buffers acids produced by bacteria, protecting tooth enamel
• Antibacterial action: Saliva contains enzymes and antibodies that fight bacteria
• Remineralization: Saliva provides minerals that help repair early tooth decay

When saliva production decreases, bacteria multiply more rapidly, food particles are not washed away efficiently, and the conditions for bad breath are created.

Causes of Dry Mouth in Children

Mouth Breathing

Children who breathe through their mouths, particularly during sleep, experience significant oral drying. Causes of mouth breathing include nasal congestion from colds or allergies, enlarged adenoids or tonsils, deviated septum, habitual mouth breathing, and sleep apnea.

Inadequate Fluid Intake

Many children do not drink enough water throughout the day, especially if they prefer sugary drinks that do not hydrate as effectively. Dehydration reduces saliva production.

Medications

Certain medications can cause dry mouth as a side effect, including antihistamines for allergies, decongestants, ADHD medications, and some asthma medications.

Mouth Breathing During Sports

Active children who breathe heavily through their mouths during physical activity may experience temporary dry mouth, particularly if they do not hydrate adequately.

Morning Breath in Children

Morning breath is particularly noticeable in children because saliva production naturally decreases during sleep. This allows bacteria to multiply overnight without the cleansing effect of saliva. Children who breathe through their mouths while sleeping have even worse morning breath.

Addressing Dry Mouth

Dr. Yasmin Kottait at myPediaClinic recommends:

• Encouraging children to drink water regularly throughout the day
• Limiting sugary and caffeinated drinks that can contribute to dehydration
• Addressing underlying causes of mouth breathing (allergies, enlarged adenoids)
• Using a humidifier in the child’s bedroom at night
• Ensuring children brush before bed to reduce overnight bacterial activity
• For severe cases, discussing saliva substitutes or stimulants with your healthcare provider

Dietary Factors Contributing to Children’s Bad Breath

What children eat and drink significantly impacts their breath. Understanding dietary influences helps parents at myPediaClinic Dubai make informed choices that promote fresh breath.

Foods That Cause Bad Breath

Garlic and Onions

These pungent foods contain sulfur compounds that enter the bloodstream and are released through the lungs, causing bad breath that can last for hours after consumption. No amount of brushing eliminates this odor because it comes from within the body.

Sugary Foods and Drinks

Sugar feeds the bacteria in the mouth, leading to increased acid and volatile compound production. Frequent snacking on candy, cookies, and sugary drinks creates an ongoing cycle of bacterial activity and bad breath.

Acidic Foods

Citrus fruits, tomatoes, and other acidic foods can contribute to bad breath by creating an environment where odor-causing bacteria thrive.

Dairy Products

For some children, particularly those with lactose intolerance, dairy products can contribute to bad breath. Bacteria break down the proteins in milk and cheese, producing foul-smelling compounds.

High-Protein Foods

Excessive protein consumption provides more material for bacteria to break down into sulfur compounds. While protein is essential, balance is important.

Dietary Habits That Worsen Bad Breath

Frequent Snacking

Constant snacking, especially on sugary or starchy foods, provides continuous fuel for bacteria. Without breaks between eating, the mouth never gets a chance to self-cleanse.

Skipping Meals

Conversely, going too long without eating can cause bad breath. When the stomach is empty for extended periods, ketones are produced and released through the breath.

Inadequate Water Consumption

Children who drink primarily juice, soda, or flavored drinks may not get adequate hydration. Water is essential for maintaining saliva production and washing away food particles.

Foods That Help Fight Bad Breath

• Crunchy fruits and vegetables: Apples, carrots, and celery help clean teeth naturally and stimulate saliva production
• Water: Plain water helps rinse away food particles and bacteria
• Sugar-free gum: Stimulates saliva flow (for older children who can chew gum safely)
• Yogurt with probiotics: May help reduce odor-causing bacteria (for children who tolerate dairy)
• Fresh herbs: Parsley and mint can temporarily freshen breath

Dietary Recommendations from Dr. Yasmin Kottait

• Encourage drinking water throughout the day
• Limit sugary snacks and drinks to mealtimes
• Offer crunchy fruits and vegetables as snacks
• Ensure children eat regular meals to avoid ketone breath
• Rinse mouth with water after consuming odorous or sugary foods
• Balance protein intake with other food groups

Medical Conditions That Cause Halitosis in Children

While most cases of bad breath in children stem from oral hygiene issues or dietary factors, sometimes halitosis indicates an underlying medical condition. Dr. Yasmin Kottait at myPediaClinic is trained to recognize when bad breath may signal a health concern requiring further evaluation.

Respiratory Conditions

Chronic Sinusitis

Persistent sinus infections cause mucus accumulation and bacterial growth in the sinuses. The infected mucus drains into the throat and contributes to bad breath. Chronic sinusitis may require evaluation by an ENT specialist.

Tonsillitis

Repeated or chronic tonsil infections cause inflammation and bacterial accumulation. Tonsil stones, which are calcified deposits of debris in the tonsil crypts, are particularly associated with severe halitosis.

Adenoid Infections

Enlarged or infected adenoids can cause nasal obstruction, mouth breathing, and harbor bacteria that contribute to bad breath.

Bronchitis and Respiratory Infections

Lower respiratory infections can cause bad breath as infected mucus is coughed up and bacteria are present in the airways.

Gastrointestinal Conditions

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

When stomach acid and partially digested food reflux into the esophagus and throat, it can cause a sour or acidic breath odor. GERD in children may present with heartburn, regurgitation, or discomfort after eating.

Intestinal Conditions

Certain digestive disorders can affect breath odor. Malabsorption conditions, intestinal infections, or other gastrointestinal problems may contribute to halitosis.

Metabolic Conditions

Diabetes

In uncontrolled diabetes, the body breaks down fat for energy, producing ketones. These ketones can cause a fruity or acetone-like breath odor. This is a serious sign requiring immediate medical attention.

Kidney Problems

When kidneys do not function properly, waste products can accumulate in the blood and affect breath odor, sometimes creating an ammonia-like smell.

Liver Disease

Liver conditions can cause a distinctive musty or sweet breath odor known as fetor hepaticus.

Other Medical Causes

Dehydration

Severe dehydration significantly reduces saliva production, allowing bacteria to flourish and causing bad breath.

Medications

Some medications cause dry mouth or are metabolized into compounds that affect breath odor. If bad breath coincides with starting a new medication, discuss this with your healthcare provider.

Allergies

Allergies cause nasal congestion, postnasal drip, and mouth breathing, all of which contribute to bad breath.

When to Seek Medical Evaluation

Consult Dr. Yasmin Kottait or your child’s pediatrician if bad breath:

• Persists despite good oral hygiene
• Is accompanied by other symptoms (fever, fatigue, weight loss)
• Has a fruity or chemical odor
• Developed suddenly without obvious cause
• Is accompanied by nasal discharge, especially if one-sided

When Bad Breath Indicates a Serious Problem

Most cases of bad breath in children are easily addressed with improved oral hygiene or dietary changes. However, certain characteristics of bad breath or accompanying symptoms should prompt parents to seek professional evaluation at myPediaClinic Dubai.

Red Flags Requiring Prompt Attention

Fruity or Sweet Breath Odor

A fruity or acetone-like breath smell can indicate diabetic ketoacidosis, a serious condition requiring immediate medical attention. This is particularly concerning if accompanied by increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, or unexplained weight loss.

One-Sided Nasal Discharge with Bad Smell

If your child has foul-smelling discharge from only one nostril, suspect a foreign object lodged in the nose. Young children often insert small items into their nostrils without parents’ knowledge. This requires prompt medical attention to remove the object before infection worsens.

Bad Breath with High Fever

Severe bad breath accompanied by high fever may indicate a significant infection such as a dental abscess, tonsillitis, or other serious condition requiring treatment.

Breath with Ammonia or Chemical Odor

An ammonia-like smell can indicate kidney problems, while other unusual chemical odors may suggest metabolic disorders.

Bad Breath with Tooth Pain or Swelling

If bad breath is accompanied by toothache, facial swelling, or visible dental problems, there may be an abscess or severe decay requiring immediate dental treatment.

Concerning Accompanying Symptoms

Seek evaluation if bad breath occurs alongside:

• Unexplained weight loss or failure to thrive
• Persistent fatigue or weakness
• Frequent vomiting or regurgitation
• Difficulty swallowing
• Chronic cough or breathing difficulties
• Visible oral lesions or bleeding gums
• Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
• Changes in voice or speech

When Bad Breath Does Not Respond to Treatment

If you have addressed oral hygiene, dietary factors, and dry mouth but bad breath persists, further investigation is warranted. Dr. Yasmin Kottait may recommend consultation with your pediatrician or specialist to rule out underlying medical conditions.

How Dr. Yasmin Kottait Diagnoses Bad Breath in Children

Accurate diagnosis is essential for effective treatment of bad breath. At myPediaClinic Dubai, Dr. Yasmin Kottait uses a systematic approach to identify the cause of your child’s halitosis.

Comprehensive History Taking

Dr. Yasmin begins by gathering detailed information about:

• When the bad breath started and how long it has persisted
• Whether it is constant or intermittent
• Your child’s oral hygiene routine
• Dietary habits and fluid intake
• Breathing patterns (mouth breathing, snoring)
• History of allergies, sinus problems, or respiratory infections
• Medications your child takes
• Any other symptoms present
• Family medical history

Clinical Examination

Oral Examination

Dr. Yasmin thoroughly examines your child’s mouth, including teeth for cavities or decay, gums for signs of inflammation or disease, tongue for coating or abnormalities, tonsils for enlargement or tonsil stones, and overall oral hygiene status.

Organoleptic Assessment

This involves the dentist directly smelling the child’s breath to characterize the odor. Different types of odors can suggest different causes.

Nasal Examination

If a nasal cause is suspected, Dr. Yasmin may examine the nostrils for foreign objects, discharge, or signs of infection.

Diagnostic Tests

Depending on the findings, additional tests may include:

• Dental X-rays: To detect cavities between teeth, abscesses, or other hidden dental problems
• Referral for sinus imaging: If chronic sinusitis is suspected
• Referral to ENT specialist: For evaluation of tonsils, adenoids, or nasal issues
• Referral to pediatrician: For evaluation of potential systemic conditions

Identifying the Root Cause

Dr. Yasmin Kottait takes a comprehensive approach to identify not just what is causing the bad breath, but why it developed in the first place. This may involve evaluating oral hygiene technique, assessing whether dental work is needed, considering lifestyle factors, and ruling out medical conditions.

Treatment Strategies for Children’s Bad Breath

Treatment for bad breath depends on the underlying cause. Dr. Yasmin Kottait at myPediaClinic Dubai develops individualized treatment plans based on each child’s specific situation.

Treating Oral Health-Related Causes

Professional Dental Cleaning

A professional cleaning removes plaque and tartar that home brushing cannot eliminate. This reduces bacterial load and often provides immediate improvement in breath odor.

Treating Dental Decay

Cavities are filled to eliminate the areas where bacteria and food accumulate. Severe decay may require more extensive treatment such as crowns or extractions.

Gum Disease Treatment

If gingivitis is present, professional cleaning combined with improved home care typically resolves the inflammation. More advanced gum disease may require additional treatment.

Oral Hygiene Instruction

Dr. Yasmin provides personalized instruction on proper brushing and flossing technique, tongue cleaning, and appropriate products for your child.

Treating Respiratory and ENT Causes

Managing Allergies

If allergies cause postnasal drip and mouth breathing, working with your pediatrician or allergist to control allergy symptoms can improve breath.

Treating Sinus Infections

Bacterial sinus infections may require antibiotics. Chronic sinusitis may need referral to an ENT specialist for comprehensive management.

Addressing Tonsil Problems

Tonsil stones can sometimes be removed at home or during a dental visit. Chronic tonsillitis may require ENT evaluation and possible surgical intervention.

Removing Foreign Objects

If a foreign object is lodged in the nose, medical removal is necessary. This should be done promptly to prevent worsening infection.

Treating Dry Mouth

• Increasing water intake throughout the day
• Using a humidifier in the bedroom at night
• Addressing underlying causes of mouth breathing
• Reviewing medications with your healthcare provider
• Using saliva substitutes or stimulants in severe cases

Dietary Modifications

• Reducing sugary foods and drinks
• Increasing water consumption
• Timing meals and snacks appropriately
• Including crunchy fruits and vegetables
• Rinsing mouth after consuming odorous foods

When Specialist Referral Is Needed

Dr. Yasmin Kottait may refer your child to other specialists when needed:

• ENT specialist: For chronic sinus, tonsil, or adenoid problems
• Pediatrician: For evaluation of systemic conditions
• Gastroenterologist: For suspected GERD or digestive issues
• Allergist: For management of allergies contributing to bad breath

Prevention Strategies for Fresh Breath in Children

Preventing bad breath is easier than treating it. Dr. Yasmin Kottait at myPediaClinic Dubai recommends these strategies to help children maintain fresh breath.

Establishing Excellent Oral Hygiene Habits

Brushing

• Brush twice daily for two full minutes
• Use a soft-bristled, age-appropriate toothbrush
• Use fluoride toothpaste in amounts appropriate for age
• Brush all tooth surfaces: front, back, and chewing surfaces
• Replace toothbrush every 3 months or when bristles fray

Flossing

• Floss daily once teeth touch each other
• Parents should floss for young children
• Use floss picks or holders for easier handling
• Clean between all teeth, including back molars

Tongue Cleaning

• Clean the tongue as part of the daily routine
• Use a toothbrush or tongue scraper
• Focus on the back of the tongue where bacteria accumulate
• Be gentle to avoid gagging or discomfort

Staying Hydrated

• Encourage drinking plain water throughout the day
• Limit sugary drinks and juices
• Ensure adequate hydration during physical activity
• Offer water with meals and snacks

Healthy Eating Habits

• Limit sugary snacks and drinks
• Offer crunchy fruits and vegetables as snacks
• Avoid frequent snacking between meals
• Encourage eating regular meals
• Rinse mouth with water after consuming odorous or sugary foods

Regular Dental Visits

Schedule dental check-ups at myPediaClinic every six months for:

• Professional cleaning to remove plaque and tartar
• Early detection of cavities and gum disease
• Assessment of oral hygiene and personalized recommendations
• Fluoride treatments for cavity prevention
• Monitoring oral development

Addressing Medical Issues Promptly

• Treat allergies effectively to reduce mouth breathing and postnasal drip
• Address sinus infections promptly
• Seek evaluation for chronic mouth breathing
• Follow up on recurrent tonsillitis

The Parents’ Role in Managing Children’s Bad Breath

Parents play a crucial role in helping children develop habits that prevent bad breath and in identifying when professional help is needed. Dr. Yasmin Kottait at myPediaClinic Dubai partners with parents to ensure children’s oral health.

Supervising Oral Hygiene

Children need parental supervision for oral hygiene until around age 7-8, and monitoring continues even longer. Parents should:

• Watch children brush and provide guidance on technique
• Ensure children brush for the full two minutes
• Help with flossing until children develop adequate dexterity
• Check that all areas are cleaned, including the tongue
• Make oral hygiene a consistent part of morning and bedtime routines

Creating a Positive Environment

Addressing bad breath sensitively is important for children’s self-esteem:

• Avoid shaming or embarrassing children about bad breath
• Frame oral hygiene as health care, not criticism
• Make brushing and flossing enjoyable activities
• Lead by example with your own oral hygiene
• Praise efforts and improvements

Monitoring for Warning Signs

Parents should stay alert for:

• Bad breath that persists despite good oral hygiene
• Unusual breath odors (fruity, chemical, ammonia-like)
• Signs of dental problems (toothache, sensitivity, visible decay)
• Symptoms of sinus or respiratory infections
• Mouth breathing during sleep or daytime
• One-sided nasal discharge
• Any accompanying symptoms like fever, fatigue, or weight changes

Ensuring Proper Nutrition and Hydration

• Provide balanced meals with limited sugar
• Make water the primary beverage
• Include breath-freshening foods like crunchy fruits and vegetables
• Limit constant snacking
• Model healthy eating and drinking habits

Keeping Up with Dental Appointments

Regular dental visits are essential for preventing and treating bad breath:

• Schedule check-ups every six months
• Keep appointments even when there are no apparent problems
• Discuss any concerns about breath or oral health with Dr. Yasmin
• Follow through on recommended treatments

Frequently Asked Questions About Bad Breath in Children

Help Your Child Achieve Fresh Breath and Optimal Oral Health

Bad breath in children is common but usually preventable and treatable. By understanding the causes, implementing good oral hygiene practices, maintaining proper hydration and nutrition, and seeking professional care when needed, you can help your child enjoy fresh breath and a healthy smile.

If your child struggles with bad breath despite your best efforts, or if you notice any warning signs that suggest a more serious underlying condition, do not hesitate to seek professional evaluation. Dr. Yasmin Kottait at myPediaClinic Dubai is experienced in diagnosing and treating halitosis in children, and she works closely with families to develop effective solutions.

Contact myPediaClinic today to schedule an appointment for your child. Together, we can ensure your child has the fresh breath and healthy smile they deserve.