Bad breath, or halitosis, is something that can affect anyone, including teenagers. While it’s often something temporary caused by a meal or snack, persistent bad breath can sometimes point to an underlying health issue. For teens, bad breath can be especially difficult, as it can impact their confidence and make social situations a bit awkward. In this post, we’ll take a closer look at what causes bad breath in teenagers and how to help them tackle it.
What is Halitosis?
Persistent bad breath, known as halitosis, happens when someone regularly experiences an unpleasant smell coming from their mouth. It’s more common than you might think — in fact, a study by Clinical Oral Investigations found that nearly one in three people worldwide struggle with bad breath. Despite how common it is, your teen might still feel embarrassed or even face teasing from their friends or classmates. The good news is, with the right steps, your teen can easily overcome bad breath. Identifying what’s causing the problem and taking action can help restore their fresh breath and boost their confidence.
Causes of Bad Breath in Teenagers
There are several reasons why bad breath might crop up in teens. Pinpointing the cause is key to addressing it effectively.
- Poor Oral Hygiene
One of the main causes of bad breath in teenagers is poor oral hygiene. If your teen isn’t brushing their teeth thoroughly or regularly, food particles get stuck in the mouth. These particles mix with bacteria, which causes bad odours. Over time, plaque and tartar can build up on teeth, leading to even worse breath. Remind your teen that brushing at least twice a day, flossing, and cleaning the tongue are essential for keeping bad breath at bay.
- Diet Choices
What your teen eats plays a big role in how their breath smells. Foods like garlic, onions, and spicy dishes can cause temporary bad breath. Sugary snacks and drinks are another culprit, as they encourage bacteria to grow in the mouth, which leads to bad odour. If your teen’s diet is mostly made up of sugary or processed foods, it could be contributing to their breath problems.
- Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)
Saliva helps wash away food particles and neutralise bad odours. When there isn’t enough saliva, it can cause bad breath. Dry mouth, or xerostomia, can happen for a number of reasons, including dehydration, breathing through the mouth, or even certain medications. If your teen isn’t drinking enough water, or if they consume a lot of caffeine or alcohol, it could lead to dry mouth and bad breath.
- Smoking or Vaping
If your teen smokes or uses e-cigarettes, this can be a major factor in bad breath. The chemicals in tobacco products leave a lingering smell in the mouth that can be hard to shake. Smoking also dries out the mouth and increases the risk of gum disease, which can contribute to bad breath.
- Health Conditions
In some cases, persistent bad breath can be linked to underlying health problems. Conditions such as sinus infections, allergies, or digestive issues can all cause bad breath. Other medical conditions, like diabetes, acid reflux, or even tonsillitis, might be to blame. If your teen’s bad breath doesn’t improve with better oral hygiene, it may be time to visit the doctor.
Treatment and Prevention
Now that we’ve covered the common causes of bad breath, let’s look at how to treat and prevent it.
- Encourage Proper Oral Hygiene
The first step to tackling bad breath is encouraging your teen to stick to a solid oral hygiene routine. They should brush their teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and don’t forget to clean the tongue as well — that’s where a lot of bacteria can build up. Flossing once a day is also really important for removing food stuck between teeth. Using a mouthwash that targets bacteria can also help freshen their breath.
- Keep Hydrated
Encourage your teen to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Staying hydrated helps to keep their mouth moist, which is key for preventing dry mouth. Drinking water also helps to wash away food particles and bacteria, which in turn can help with bad breath.
- Limit Sugary Foods and Drinks
Sugary snacks and drinks provide the perfect environment for bacteria to grow, which leads to bad breath. Encourage your teen to cut back on sugary foods, sodas, and sweets. Instead, offer healthy alternatives like fresh fruit, vegetables, or nuts, which can help freshen their breath naturally.
- Quit Smoking or Vaping
If your teen smokes or uses e-cigarettes, quitting is the best way to improve their breath. Not only will stopping smoking improve their breath, but it will also have numerous benefits for their overall health. Support your teen in quitting — it’s never too early to start!
- Regular Dental Check-ups
Regular dental visits are essential for maintaining good oral health and preventing bad breath. A dentist can help spot any issues, such as cavities or gum disease, that may be contributing to the problem. If bad breath persists despite keeping up with oral hygiene, the dentist may refer your teen to a doctor to explore other possible causes.
Bad breath in teenagers can be caused by a number of factors, from poor oral hygiene to underlying health conditions. While it’s common, persistent halitosis shouldn’t be ignored. By encouraging good oral hygiene, staying hydrated, limiting sugary foods, and visiting the dentist regularly, you can help your teen maintain fresh breath and feel more confident. If bad breath continues despite these efforts, it may be time to consult a healthcare professional to identify and treat any underlying issues. With the right care and attention, your teen can enjoy fresh breath and feel great about their smile again.