Do Dental Crowns and Bridges Cause Bad Breath
You might have heard the claim that dental crowns and bridges can cause bad breath, but is there any truth to this? Let’s break it down and clear up any confusion.
Can Crowns and Bridges Cause Bad Breath?
The short answer is no, dental crowns and bridges don’t cause bad breath on their own. These restorations are usually made from materials like porcelain or gold, which are non-reactive and do not contribute to unpleasant smells. However, if you’re experiencing bad breath and have crowns or bridges, there could be other factors at play.
Poorly Fitted Crowns and Bridges
One of the main reasons bad breath can occur with crowns or bridges is when they’re poorly fitted. If the crown or bridge is over-contoured or doesn’t leave enough space for proper cleaning, bacteria can get trapped around the edges. These bacteria can multiply and produce odours, leading to bad breath. This is why it’s important for crowns and bridges to be precisely shaped and well-fitted, allowing you to clean around them thoroughly.
Tiny Gaps Can Trap Bacteria
Another issue that can contribute to bad breath is when the fit of the crown or bridge isn’t perfect. Tiny gaps can form between the crown or bridge and the natural tooth, creating small spaces where food particles and bacteria can collect. Over time, these areas can become a breeding ground for bacteria, which may result in bad breath. If you notice bad breath after getting a crown or bridge, it’s a good idea to have your dentist check the fit to ensure there are no gaps where bacteria can hide.

Other Causes of Bad Breath
It’s also important to remember that bad breath isn’t always caused by dental restorations. Decay under a crown or bridge, gum disease around them, or even digestive issues like acid reflux can all contribute to unpleasant breath. In some cases, the bad breath may not be related to your dental work at all but instead linked to other oral health or medical concerns.
What Should You Do If You’re Experiencing Bad Breath?
If you or someone you know is dealing with persistent bad breath, it’s essential to see a dentist or GP to get to the root of the problem. Whether it’s a poorly fitted restoration, gum disease, or another issue, addressing it early can help prevent more serious complications down the line. Your dentist can assess your crowns or bridges, check for signs of decay, and ensure that everything is fitting properly to maintain your oral health.
Let Us Help You Keep Your Smile Fresh
At Pitt St Dental Centre, we’re here to help keep your smile fresh and your dental work in top condition. If you’re concerned about bad breath or any issues with your crowns or bridges, simply fill out our enquiry form or give us a call to organise a consultation. We’ll get to the bottom of the issue and ensure your smile stays fresh and healthy.
The content has been made available for informational and educational purposes only. Pitt Street Dental Centre does not make any representation or warranties with respect to the accuracy, applicability, fitness, or completeness of the content.
The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional personal diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a dental or medical condition. Never disregard professional advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read or seen on the Site.
Services We Mentioned:

Dental Crowns

Dental Bridge
