Occasional bad breath in your child is usually not a cause for concern. However, if it becomes persistent, it may indicate an underlying issue.

Here are some common reasons why your child might be experiencing bad breath.

• Poor Oral Hygiene and Cavities
  When your child doesn’t brush and floss regularly, food particles can become trapped between their teeth, allowing bacteria to thrive. This bacteria causes plaque buildup, leading to cavities and tooth decay, which in turn can create a foul odor.
• Infections, Illnesses, and Mouth Sores
  Certain illnesses, particularly upper respiratory, sinus, or throat infections, can cause bad breath in children due to nasal congestion and mouth breathing. Bacteria feed on the mucus produced by the body, but this typically resolves once the infection or sores heal.
• Medications
  Some medications can cause an unusual smell in your child’s mouth, especially if they lead to dry mouth.
• Dry Mouth and Mouth Breathing
  Mouth breathing, whether due to sleep habits or a stuffy nose, can reduce saliva production in children. Saliva is essential for washing away bacteria, so a lack of it can contribute to bad breath.