Does Tooth Decay Cause Bad Breath?

Cavities—they’re not a fun experience. Easily recognizable by the discomfort and pain they can cause, cavities are an extremely common dental problem. Fortunately, they’re also highly treatable; your dentist can help you find relief. But in the meantime, what can you expect from a cavity? Can they cause bad breath?

Cavities are caused by a bacterial buildup causing tooth decay, and this buildup can leave a distinct smell. Cavities often cause both a bad taste in the mouth as well as bad breath, which can be a frustrating experience. If you’re noticing consistent bad breath even when maintaining your oral hygiene, you might be dealing with a cavity.

What Are Cavities?

Your teeth are made up of 3 layers. There's the pulp and nerves on the inside, the central layer of dentin in the middle, and the enamel on the outside.

The enamel acts as a sort of shield for the more sensitive inner layers. It protects them from bacteria and harmful contaminants that could wreak havoc on these more sensitive layers. However, the enamel isn't invulnerable, and sometimes it can get damaged by bacteria in your mouth.

Inside your mouth, you have an entire ecosystem of tiny bacteria. Usually, they're harmless—but this isn't always the case. When you consume sugary foods and drinks, these bacteria thrive and produce acids that begin to wear down your teeth.

This acid can eventually become plaque—that sticky off-white film on some teeth—that continuously wears away at the enamel. If left for too long, plaque begins to create little gaps and holes in the enamel, exposing the sensitive inner layers and allowing bacteria inside. The result is a cavity, also known as dental caries and tooth decay.

How to Tell if You Have a Cavity

Cavities can pose a bigger threat than you might think at first. As bacteria thrive in the tiny gaps and cracks in the teeth, they begin to multiply and spread. They burrow further into the teeth, worsening symptoms. If they reach the pulp and the nerves at the base of your teeth, they can trigger significant pain and discomfort, and can even cause permanent loss of the tooth and surrounding tissue.

That's why it's so important to learn the early signs that you're dealing with a cavity. These signs can include:

• Toothaches or spontaneous pain

• Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks

• Visible holes or pits in your teeth

• Brown, black, or white staining on the surface of your teeth

• Pain when you bite down

As cavity-causing bacteria multiply, you'll even likely notice halitosis—also known as bad breath. Certain bacteria consume parts of the food you eat and release a sulphur compound as a result, creating foul-smelling breath every time you exhale.

Don't ignore the early signs of a cavity, as prompt treatment can mean the difference between an easy solution and total tooth loss.

How to Deal with Bad Breath

If you're dealing with bad breath, that doesn't necessarily mean you're dealing with a cavity—it could just be a case of poor oral hygiene. In order to improve your oral hygiene, you can:

• Brush 2 times a day with fluoride toothpaste, making sure to reach the surface of every tooth

• Floss regularly to dislodge any food particles, making sure to reach between every tooth and along the gumline

• Use antibacterial mouthwash to kill residual bacteria

• Rinse your mouth after every meal

• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, which can help wash away food particles and bacteria

• Avoid tobacco products, as they can contribute to bad breath and oral health problems

These habits can make a significant difference in the smell of your breath. However, if you notice that you still deal with constant bad breath, it's time to visit the dentist.

How Dentists Treat Cavities

If your dentist thinks you have a cavity, they'll assess the problem to determine the right approach. 

While treatment depends on the extent of the damage to your tooth, there are typically 4 approaches:

• Remineralization, where the tooth is carefully cleaned. Then, a fluoride treatment is applied to the area to restore the enamel. This only works in the earliest stages of a cavity.

• Fillings, where the damaged part of the tooth is carefully removed. Then, a composite material is installed to restore the function and appearance of the tooth. This is ideal when the damage to the tooth is minor.

• Crowns, where a significant portion of the tooth is removed. A crown is placed over the remaining tooth structure to protect it and restore its shape. This is ideal when the damage is severe.

• Root canals, where bacteria have spread deep into the pulp of your tooth. Your dentist will carefully remove any dead or infected tissue before cleaning out the inside of your tooth and filling it with a special material to prevent future infections.

Your dentist will take the time to walk you through your options. If you have any questions, feel free to ask!

When to Visit the Dentist

Bad breath is more than just a minor inconvenience—it's a sign that something more serious is occurring. If you suspect you have a cavity or are struggling with bad breath, don't hesitate to contact our team at Shine Dental. Request an appointment today to take the first step towards a healthier, fresher smile.