Can a poorly made porcelain crown cause bad breath?

Jul 01, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I had a porcelain crown fitted not long ago, and now I'm experiencing some bad breath. Can a poorly fitted porcelain crown cause bad breath?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Guo Huijie
Poorly made porcelain crowns may cause bad breath. Possible reasons include: 1. Food impaction: If the edges of the porcelain crown are not well sealed or the contact between the porcelain crown and adjacent teeth is improper, food debris may become trapped in the gaps between the teeth. If not cleaned in a timely manner, bacteria can proliferate in the debris, causing odor. 2. Gingivitis: Porcelain crowns made at basic-level hospitals may have poorly fitting edges due to technical limitations, which can easily lead to gingivitis. Gingivitis is accompanied by accumulation of dental plaque and tartar, which can further cause bad breath. 3. Porcelain crown material issues: If the porcelain crown material is substandard or the porcelain-fusing technique is inadequate, it may cause gum recession and gaps between the gum and the porcelain crown. This can lead to accumulation of food debris, which in turn can easily cause bad breath over time. Therefore, to avoid bad breath, it is recommended to choose a reputable dental hospital and experienced dentist for porcelain crown restoration, and to maintain good oral hygiene habits.