Concerns About Bad Odor from Second Molars After Root Canal Treatment - Dentistry

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It sounds like you're experiencing a frustrating situation with your right lower second molar after undergoing root canal treatment and having a crown placed. The presence of a bad odor when brushing your teeth can be concerning, especially after such a significant dental procedure. Let's break down your concerns and explore potential causes and solutions.


Understanding the Situation
1. Root Canal Treatment and Crown Placement: After a root canal, the tooth is often sealed and covered with a crown to protect it from further decay and to restore its function. However, if there are any issues with the sealing or if there is residual infection, it could lead to complications.

2. Odor and Taste: The foul smell you're experiencing could indicate several things:
- Residual Infection: Sometimes, even after a root canal, bacteria can remain in the tooth or surrounding tissues, leading to an infection that can produce a foul odor.

- Crown Integrity: If the crown is not properly sealed, food particles and bacteria can enter underneath it, leading to decay of the underlying tooth structure, which could also produce an odor.

- Adjacent Teeth: The mention of your wisdom tooth potentially pushing against the second molar could be significant. If the wisdom tooth is impacted or decayed, it could contribute to the odor as well.

3. Food Trapping: If food is getting trapped between your teeth, especially if the wisdom tooth is angled, it can lead to decay and bad breath. This is often exacerbated by difficulty in cleaning those areas effectively.


Recommendations
1. Dental Evaluation: It’s crucial to return to your dentist for a thorough examination. They may need to take X-rays to check for any underlying issues with the root canal-treated tooth or the adjacent wisdom tooth. If there is decay under the crown or an infection, it will need to be addressed promptly.

2. Cleaning Techniques: While you mention that you brush carefully, consider incorporating additional cleaning methods:
- Flossing: Ensure you are flossing daily to remove any food particles trapped between your teeth.

- Interdental Brushes: These can be particularly effective for cleaning around crowns and in tight spaces.

- Mouthwash: An antibacterial mouthwash can help reduce bacteria in your mouth, which may help with odor.

3. Wisdom Tooth Assessment: If your dentist suspects that the wisdom tooth is contributing to the problem, they may recommend monitoring it or even considering extraction if it is impacted or decayed.

4. Possible Re-treatment: If the root canal is suspected to be failing, your dentist might refer you to an endodontist (a specialist in root canal treatments) for further evaluation and potential retreatment.

5. Regular Check-ups: Maintaining regular dental check-ups is essential, especially after significant treatments like root canals. This allows for early detection of any issues that may arise.


Conclusion
In summary, the bad odor you're experiencing from your second molar could be due to several factors, including residual infection, issues with the crown, or problems with adjacent teeth. It's essential to follow up with your dentist for a comprehensive evaluation and to discuss your concerns about potential decay. By addressing these issues promptly, you can help ensure the longevity of your dental work and maintain your oral health. Don't hesitate to seek a second opinion if you're not satisfied with the current assessment; your comfort and health are paramount.