Posted by Sarah T. on September 15, 2005, at 1:45:34
In reply to chronic bad breathe (my 6 year old), posted by spriggy on September 14, 2005, at 11:50:43
Hi there, Spriggy,
A few years ago I read that most cases of chronic bad breath are caused by sinus infections. Perhaps you could schedule an appointment with an ear, nose and throat doctor (otolaryngologist) to see whether there is some infection festering in his sinuses. I also read that many sinus infections are caused by fungi, not bacteria, so that the use of antibiotics may not be the most effective treatment. Didn't you say that you had a bad mold/fungus problem in your house? I believe you said that problem is cleaned up now, but some of the mold spores might have taken up residence in your child's sinuses months ago. If the sinuses are blocked due to bone structure or swelling, then the infection just can't clear out.
Other possible culprits causing bad breath are digestive problems and dental problems, such as food stuck in between the teeth or dental decay. Does your child use dental floss? Years ago, I had a friend who didn't floss. He had terrible breath. He would eat meat, and pieces of meat would remain stuck between his teeth and start to smell. I did get him to start flossing regularly.
I hope you can get to the root of the problem. I think mouth washes aren't much good, except for the first few minutes after you use them. I do think it would be a good idea to get his sinuses checked.
poster:Sarah T.
thread:554991
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/health/20050411/msgs/555243.html