Got a dental crown and noticed your breath isn’t as fresh as it used to be? You’re not alone! While crowns themselves don’t cause bad breath, certain issues—like poor hygiene, an ill-fitting crown, or gum problems—can contribute to unpleasant odours.
Bad breath, or halitosis, is often caused by bacteria in the mouth breaking down food particles. When a crown is involved, the problem can become worse if proper oral hygiene isn’t maintained. Understanding the connection between crowns and bad breath can help you take the right steps to keep your mouth fresh.
Let’s explore the common causes of bad breath linked to crowns and how to keep your mouth fresh and healthy.
Can Dental Crowns Cause Bad Breath?
1. Poor Oral Hygiene
Not brushing or flossing properly can lead to food and plaque build-up around your crown, creating a breeding ground for bacteria. This bacteria breaks down food particles, releasing foul-smelling gases. Regular brushing, flossing, and antibacterial mouthwash can help prevent this.
In some cases, people assume a crown doesn’t require as much care as a natural tooth, but that’s far from the truth. A crown needs just as much, if not more, attention to avoid plaque build-up and decay in the surrounding areas.
2. Ill-Fitting Crowns
A crown that doesn’t fit well can trap food and bacteria underneath, leading to decay and bad breath. If your crown feels loose or uncomfortable, visit your dentist to get it adjusted.
Crowns should fit snugly against your natural tooth, ensuring there are no small gaps where bacteria can hide. If you notice discomfort, sensitivity, or a foul taste, it’s best to get your crown checked to prevent further issues.
3. Tooth Decay Under the Crown
If bacteria sneak under your crown due to tiny gaps, they can cause decay and a bad odour. This isn’t always visible, so regular dental check-ups help catch problems early.
Decay under a crown can be tricky to detect, as it often happens out of sight. However, if you have persistent bad breath or sensitivity, it could be a sign that decay has started beneath the crown. Your dentist may recommend X-rays to diagnose the issue accurately.
4. Gum Disease
Swollen, bleeding gums are a major cause of bad breath. If plaque builds up around your crown, it can irritate your gums, leading to infections and an unpleasant smell. Proper oral care and dental cleanings help prevent gum disease.
Gingivitis and periodontitis can develop if bacteria accumulate along the gumline. Symptoms include redness, swelling, and tenderness. If left untreated, gum disease could worsen and even result in tooth loss. Ensuring your crown is placed correctly and maintaining good gum health is essential.
5. Dry Mouth
Saliva helps wash away bacteria, so when your mouth is dry, bad breath is more likely. Staying hydrated, chewing sugar-free gum, and using saliva-boosting products can help.
Dry mouth (xerostomia) can be caused by medications, dehydration, or medical conditions. Without enough saliva, bacteria thrive, leading to bad breath and an increased risk of decay. Drinking plenty of water and using special mouthwashes can help combat this issue.
6. Leftover Dental Cement
Sometimes, excess dental cement from crown placement can attract bacteria and cause an unpleasant taste and smell. If you notice persistent bad breath after getting a crown, check with your dentist to ensure no cement remains.
In rare cases, leftover cement can also lead to gum irritation and inflammation. A quick visit to your dentist can resolve this issue by removing any excess material.
7. Food Trapped Around the Crown
Certain foods, such as garlic and onions, can leave lingering odours, especially if bits get stuck around your crown. Rinsing with water or mouthwash after meals helps keep things fresh.
Sticky or fibrous foods, such as caramel, popcorn, or meat, can get lodged between your crown and gums. Using floss or an interdental brush after meals can remove food particles and reduce bad breath.
How to Prevent Bad Breath with a Crown
- Brush and floss daily: Clean thoroughly around your crown.
- Use mouthwash: Antibacterial mouthwash helps reduce bacteria.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to prevent dry mouth.
- Visit your dentist regularly: Professional cleanings and check-ups keep your crown and gums healthy.
- Watch for gum problems: See a dentist if you notice redness, tenderness, or bleeding.
- Ensure a proper crown fit: A well-fitted crown reduces the trapped food and bacteria.
- Eat a balanced diet: Crunchy fruits and vegetables can help clean your teeth and freshen your breath.
- Avoid smoking: Tobacco products contribute to dry mouth and bacterial growth, increasing the risk of bad breath.
When to See a Dentist
If bad breath stays despite good oral care, it’s time for a dental check-up. Signs you should see a dentist include:
- Persistent bad breath.
- Pain or sensitivity around your crown.
- Swollen or bleeding gums.
- A loose or damaged crown.
- A lingering bad taste in your mouth.
Your dentist can examine your dental crown, gums, and overall oral health to pinpoint the cause of the problem. Addressing the issue early prevents further complications and ensures your breath stays fresh.
Final Thoughts
Dental crowns don’t directly cause bad breath, but poor hygiene, ill-fitting crowns, gum disease, or trapped food can contribute. Maintaining good oral care, regular dental visits, and proper hydration can help keep your breath fresh and your crown in top shape.
At Dentists at Surrey Hills, we ensure your crowns fit perfectly and provide expert advice on oral care. If you’re experiencing bad breath or concerns about your crown, and looking for a dentist in Surrey Hills, book an appointment with us today!
Book an Appointment: Contact Dentists at Surrey Hills for expert dental care and fresh breath solutions!
