A persistent, foul odor from a tooth often indicates a dead tooth, where the internal tissues are no longer alive. Understanding the cause and treatment is important.
What Causes the Odor
The unpleasant smell from a dead or necrotic tooth stems from the decay of its internal pulp tissue. This pulp, containing nerves and blood vessels, dies when its blood supply is cut off, often due to severe decay or trauma. As the pulp breaks down, bacteria thrive, metabolizing the dead tissue and releasing malodorous byproducts.
These byproducts are largely volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs), such as hydrogen sulfide (rotten eggs) and methyl mercaptan (decayed vegetables). If decay is advanced and leads to an exposed root canal, pus and fluid can leak, further intensifying the bad taste and odor.
Identifying a Dead Tooth
Recognizing a dead tooth is important for timely professional care. A noticeable indicator is a change in the tooth’s color. It may appear yellow, light brown, gray, or black, often distinct from surrounding healthy teeth. This discoloration can worsen as internal decay progresses.
While some experience no pain, others feel mild to intense discomfort from a dying nerve or infection. Other signs include gum swelling near the tooth, a persistent bad taste, the foul odor, and sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures.
Professional Treatment for a Dead Tooth
Eliminating a dead tooth’s odor permanently requires professional dental intervention. Root canal therapy, also known as endodontic treatment, is the primary procedure. It removes infected pulp, cleans and disinfects internal canals, and seals the tooth to prevent further infection.
During a root canal, the dentist creates an opening in the crown to access the pulp chamber. Diseased tissue is removed, and root canals are cleaned and shaped. After disinfection, the space is filled with gutta-percha, sealed with cement. A temporary filling is often placed, followed by a permanent crown or filling to protect and restore the tooth. This treatment saves the tooth, eliminates the odor source, and prevents infection spread.
If a root canal isn’t feasible or the tooth is too damaged to be restored, extraction may be necessary. This involves removing the dead tooth, considered for extensive infection, insufficient healthy structure, or irreparable damage. While extraction removes the infection and odor, replacing the missing tooth with an implant, bridge, or denture is often recommended to maintain oral health and function.
Temporary Measures for Odor Relief
While professional dental treatment is the definitive solution, temporary measures can help manage the foul odor. Maintaining rigorous oral hygiene is important.
Thorough brushing, regular flossing, and tongue cleaning remove food particles and bacteria. Antiseptic mouthwash can temporarily mask odor and reduce bacterial load. A warm saltwater rinse also helps cleanse the area and reduce inflammation.
These practices offer symptomatic relief by minimizing bacterial activity and debris. However, these remedies do not address the underlying cause and are not a substitute for professional dental care.