Halitosis in Children

Good breath is as important a part of a healthy smile as strong teeth, and that’s true for children, as well. When children suffer from chronic halitosis, it may be due to diabetes or a previously unknown allergy. However, it is usually due to bacterial build-up, which is why we want our patients to know about some of children’s particular hygiene issues in this area.

Excessive bacteria growth usually occurs in creviced tissue that regularly accumulates food debris. The tongue obviously fits this description, which is why children are encouraged to brush it as well as their teeth. The tonsils could also be a breeding ground for bacteria. Small children get frequent sinus infections, and nasal drip accumulating in the throat provides bacteria with another food source. Bad breath could also be a sign that a child has cankers or another kind of mouth sore.

People with dry mouth are particularly susceptible to bad breath because saliva is an important check on bacteria growth. Children often dry out from mouth breathing and may need to see a specialist for help. However, chewing sugar-free gum can work as a stop-gap to increase saliva production. Dry mouth is also a common medication side effect, including for ADHD and anxiety pills that are often prescribed to children. Parents may want to talk to their child’s doctor about getting an adjustment if this is an issue, as it poses a risk to both a child’s social life and their oral health.

Dr. Allen Ressler, Dr. Andrew Hirschl, and Dr. Ira Lelchuk operate from two locations. To schedule an appointment at the location at Mount Sinai Medical Center, 4300 Alton Road, Suite 1190, Miami Beach, Florida, 33140, call 305-532-1444. To schedule an appointment at Intracoastal Mall, 3909 NE 163^rd St, Suite 310, North Miami Beach, Florida, 33160, call 305-949-2630. They can also be reached on their website, Miami-Dental.com, through a contact form.

 

Acid Reflux and Tooth Decay

Patients at Ressler, Hirschl, and Lelchuk’s dental offices receive preventive care appropriate for every part of life. Although childhood dental education emphasizes plaque as a major cause of tooth decay, one of the biggest threats to adults is acid reflux. We offer many services for repairing and strengthening enamel, but for the sake of acid reflux patients’ comfort, as well as their health, they will likely have to make some lifestyle changes.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is said to occur when a patient suffers heartburn at least twice a week.  Heartburn is actually caused by stomach acid escaping into the esophagus, burning soft tissues as it goes, and potentially getting as far as the mouth. Prolonged, repeated exposure to acid causes enamel to erode, leaving teeth discolored, sensitive, and misshapen. Because of their position in the mouth, it is often the inward and downward facing sides of the upper teeth which are most affected. Smoothing of the molars could cause problems for the patient’s bite.

Sealants can help strengthen teeth, but enamel cannot be regrown once it has been lost. Partial crowns are valuable tools for reversing the damage of acid reflux, but to prevent further problems, patients should reduce their intake of high-fat and acidic food, as well as alcohol, chocolate, and caffeine. Patients are also advised to not eat in large quantities before lying down and to quit smoking.

Dr. Allen Ressler, Dr. Andrew Hirschl, and Dr. Ira Lelchuk operate from two locations. To schedule an appointment at the location at Mount Sinai Medical Center, 4300 Alton Road, Suite 1190, Miami Beach, Florida, 33140, call 305-532-1444. To schedule an appointment at Intracoastal Mall, 3909 NE 163^rd St, Suite 310, North Miami Beach, Florida, 33160, call 305-949-2630. They can also be reached on their website, Miami-Dental.com, through a contact form.