Dental crowns do not inherently cause bad breath. However, issues that arise with or around them can contribute to an unpleasant odor. Bad breath from a crowned tooth often signals an underlying dental problem requiring attention.
Understanding Dental Crowns
A dental crown is a cap that covers a damaged or weakened tooth, restoring its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Dentists use crowns to protect a tooth from further decay or fracture, or to improve its aesthetics. These custom-made restorations fit snugly over the visible portion of a tooth. When properly placed and maintained, a crown functions seamlessly with the natural dentition.
How Crowns Can Contribute to Bad Breath
Bad breath originating from a crowned tooth points to specific issues, not the crown material itself. A common cause is a poorly fitting crown, which creates small gaps between the crown and the natural tooth or gum line. These crevices allow food particles and oral bacteria to accumulate, leading to plaque buildup and the release of foul-smelling sulfur compounds. Your toothbrush might not effectively reach these hidden areas, allowing bacteria to thrive.
Decay forming underneath the crown can also lead to bad breath. Bacteria can infiltrate if the crown’s seal is compromised or if previous decay was not fully removed. These bacteria break down tooth structure, producing odors that escape around the crown. This hidden decay may not initially cause pain, but it can manifest as persistent bad breath or an unusual taste in the mouth.
Gum inflammation, such as gingivitis or periodontitis, around a crowned tooth also contributes to bad breath. An ill-fitting crown can irritate gum tissue or make it difficult to clean, leading to inflammation and bleeding. Inflamed gums provide an environment where odor-producing bacteria flourish. A cracked or damaged crown can also harbor bacteria and food debris, creating additional sites for odor production.
Other Common Reasons for Bad Breath
Bad breath, or halitosis, often stems from factors unrelated to dental crowns. Poor oral hygiene is a common reason, as leftover food particles and bacterial plaque accumulate on teeth, gums, and the tongue, releasing unpleasant odors. A dry mouth, or xerostomia, reduces saliva production, which is essential for washing away food debris and bacteria, contributing to bad breath.
Certain foods like garlic, onions, and coffee, along with tobacco products, can also cause temporary or persistent bad breath. Beyond oral factors, various medical conditions can lead to halitosis, including sinus infections, tonsil stones, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and systemic diseases affecting the kidneys or liver. Some medications can also induce dry mouth as a side effect, indirectly causing bad breath.
Addressing Bad Breath and Crown Care
If you experience persistent bad breath and have a dental crown, addressing the issue often involves improved oral hygiene and professional dental intervention. Maintaining good oral hygiene includes brushing twice daily and flossing around crowned teeth to remove plaque and food particles. Using an alcohol-free mouthwash can also help reduce bacteria and freshen breath.
Regular dental check-ups are essential for detecting and resolving crown-related issues early. Your dentist can assess the crown’s fit and integrity, identify any decay underneath, or diagnose gum inflammation. If a crown causes persistent bad breath, pain, or sensitivity, consult your dentist promptly. Dental interventions may include refitting or replacing a poorly seated crown, treating decay or gum disease, or performing a root canal if the tooth nerve is affected.