When bad breath affects your self-esteem, it’s time to figure out what’s causing it. Many patients visiting our dental clinic in Delhi ask a common question to our dentist, Dr. Rajat Sachdeva, “Do cavities cause bad breath?” Yes, cavities can cause bad breath. It occurs when the surface of the tooth is destroyed by bacteria present in the oral cavity. The bacteria, along with sugars and food waste, produce acid that causes cavities and tooth decay in the long run.
Dring a dental exam, Dr. Rajat Sachdeva, a proficient dental specialist in Delhi, can examine your oral health and discuss your oral hygiene regimen to help you get rid of bad breath. Also, he will investigate signs of dental decay during this visit.
First, let’s know,
Reasons for Bad Breath
Bad breath occurs due to the build-up of bacteria in the mouth. There are several causes of bad breath, including:
- Inadequate oral hygiene
- Bacterial growth on the tongue
- Dry mouth
- Tooth decay
- Gingivitis
Cavity treatment is required if bad breath is caused by dental decay. Bacteria can become lodged in decay pockets, making it challenging to keep your mouth clean and, as a result, your breath fresh. Thus, cavities can produce bad breath. To combat bad breath, consult a dentist and use an anti-cavity mouthwash.
What is a Cavity?
A cavity is a flaw in the enamel or dentin. It develops due to the pathological process of dental caries (a breach in the continuity of the surface integrity of a tooth). Tooth decay is caused by infections of bacteria that convert sugar in a diet to acids. These acids can cause cavities in the teeth over time.
Because the food particles cannot be eliminated by routine brushing, the cavity produces tiny cracks where food becomes trapped and begins to rot in the already decaying tooth. Food remains fermenting somewhere inside the cavity.
Otherwise, the cavity has reached the dental nerves and tissues, rotting and causing a foul odour. It might also cause a foul odour in a damaged tooth. The color of the teeth is also altered, turning black. We can avoid tooth decay by practicing good oral hygiene.
Bad breath due to cavities is not the end of the world. Below are few measures to enjoy a fresh breath despite a caries tooth.
- Obstruction of Saliva:
Saliva is an important medium in preventing bad breath as it cleanses and washes away bacteria in the oral cavity. If less saliva is present, the bacteria cannot be washed properly as the mouth becomes dry and creates a suitable environment for bad breath. Saliva flushes away food particles and prevents bacteria, one of the leading causes of bad breath.
But the cavities hamper saliva from reaching the food particles in between the teeth and cause the food particles to rot, causing bad breath in the mouth. However, flossing can help enhance saliva flow. The use of the right mouthwash can make teeth and gums healthy. It also prevents dental cavities that are not already affected.
- Weak Dental Fillings:
With time, dental fillings get weak and are prone to bacterial infection. The bacterial infections mostly start at the edge of the fillings and may reach inside the filling in no time, thereby getting a cavity and bad breath due to tooth decay.
With time cavities get deeper, bigger, and more painful. If left untreated, they can reach the pulp, causing infections like an abscess. It can also spread to adjacent teeth or surrounding structures and increase bad breath. So, visit a dental clinic for a regular dental check-up.
- Fluoride Toothpaste:
Fluoride being the main ingredient prevents cavities before they occur. It strengthens all the weak areas of the teeth and helps fight against cavities.
- Fluoride Mouthwash:
The fluoride mouthwash is effective in cavity prevention and helps in keeping the teeth and mouth healthy. It is suitable for all ages and kids who are above six years. It will penetrate between the teeth and will give the teeth the protection they need.
With proper mouthwash for additional protection, the key to fighting against tooth decay and bad breath is maintaining good oral hygiene, proper brushing, and flossing twice daily.
It is recommended to visit a dentist every six months for a regular dental check-up. Never postpone a dental visit or extend the dental appointments, as too much time between dental visits can make things worse. It will only aggravate the problems like gum and tooth decay leading to cavities and bad breath.
Cavities harbor bacteria from food waste and lead to bad breath. Besides, it also causes pain from decayed teeth and affects oral health in the long run. It makes it essential to consult a dentist for regular check-ups and have any cavities filled.
