Bad breath is a common issue that affects nearly 50% of adults. Mostly, cases are temporary and easily tackled with proper oral hygiene practices. However, persistent foul mouth odor might be an indicator of underlying dental issues. So, do cavities cause bad breath? If yes, then how? Let’s find out.
Can a Cavity Cause Bad Taste or Bad Breath?
Yes. Although not all oral bacteria are harmful, some emit unpleasant odors or tastes. This is often the case with plaque associated with cavities. Instead of the cavity itself, it is more likely that you are smelling the underlying bacteria.
How to Treat Bad Breath from Tooth Decay?
Maintaining a healthy oral hygiene routine is crucial for addressing bad breath linked to cavities and reducing the risk of further decay. Here are some simple steps you can take:
- Brush Twice Every day: Use toothpaste that has fluoride and brush your teeth for a full two minutes each time.
- Daily Flossing: Make sure to floss once a day to remove food particles and plaque between your teeth.
- Mouthwash: Swish your mouth with a fluoride rinse to kill bacteria and freshen your breath.
- Dietary Choices: Limit your intake of sugary foods and beverages and incorporate crunchy, healthy snacks like apples and carrots.
- Keep up With Hydration: Drinking water throughout the day helps maintain saliva production, which aids in washing away bacteria.
- Sugar-Free Gum: Chewing sugar-free gum prevents dry mouth, a common contributor to bad breath.
- Avoid Tobacco: Steer clear of tobacco-based products since they can worsen bad breath.
Does Filling Cavities Improve Bad Breath?
Yes, it definitely does! If you notice that your breath significantly improves after getting a cavity filled, you are not alone. Dentists recommend treatments to prevent cavities from worsening. Early-stage cavities are treatable with the help of fluoride to stop tooth decay, while more advanced cases may require fillings.
Other Potential Causes of Chronic Bad Breath
While cavities remain the most common trigger for bad breath, persistent odor issues, even after cavity treatment or adopting proper oral hygiene, indicate other underlying troubles. These may include the following:
Dry Mouth: Less saliva production in your mouth causes dryness, resulting in bad breath.
Mouth Infections: Infections bud due to bacteria that produce unpleasant odors.
Gingivitis: Inflammation of the gums often also produces pus stinking the mouth.
Orthodontic Devices or Dentures: Make sure to thoroughly clean devices that can harbor bacteria.
Certain Foods: Foods like garlic and onions can temporarily contribute to bad breath.
Medical Conditions: Conditions such as diabetes, acid reflux, allergies, post-nasal drip, sinusitis, kidney disease, and liver disease can also be culprits.
When to Get In Touch With a Dentist?
If you can spot a cavity or chronic bad breath lingering on even with regular brushing and flossing, it is time to reach out to a dentist. Additionally, if you experience issues like the following, consider seeing a dentist:
- Tooth pain
- Bleeding gums
- Gum swelling or pain
- Loose adult teeth
- White coating on your tongue
- Mouth ulcers
Closing Note
Experts from Spring Branch Dental Group are your best bet to get those nasty cavities between your teeth filled for a fresh-smelling mouth. Our competent team is just a call away—Dial (832) 548-1533 to connect with us.