Question:
My 8-month-old has bad breath. Is this normal? She is just getting over a slight cold but otherwise seems fine. Should I be concerned?
Answer:
Bad breath in young children may indicate a mouth, throat or sinus infection. Here are a few things to consider: is your daughter cutting teeth and getting a red area near an emerging tooth? Some young explorers put small objects in their nose and if they stay, they can create a terrible smell. Is a bad-smelling discharge coming from her nose? If you're concerned about any of these possibilities, make an appointment to see your normal doctor during the week. If not, and your daughter seems well in general, wait a week or so. If the bad breath continues, then go to see your doctor.