Addressing Bad Odor Around Braces: Causes and Solutions

There is a foul odor around the braces?

The second to last tooth on the bottom row underwent root canal treatment and has braces.
Recently, while using dental floss, I noticed a foul odor from that area.
I went to the clinic for an X-ray, but no issues were found.
The doctor mentioned that it might be the smell from the previous medication.
After two hours, they called me back and said that upon closer examination of the X-ray, there is a cavity.

1.
What could be the possible issues?
2.
Can proper cleaning after every meal improve the situation?
3.
Does this mean the braces need to be redone?
4.
What are the differences in accuracy between the X-ray equipment at the clinic and that at a major hospital? Is it necessary to go to a major hospital for an X-ray to determine whether it is a medication issue or a cavity?

Miss Wang, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/10/12

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry

Hello, based on the situation you described, it is likely that the lack of thorough cleaning of the molars is the cause.
You mentioned using dental floss, which generally removes plaque from the interproximal surfaces between teeth.
However, cleaning beneath these surfaces may require the use of interdental brushes.
Interdental brushes are designed for cleaning larger gaps between teeth, specifically the triangular spaces beneath the interproximal surfaces, especially in patients with periodontal disease or those with braces (or dentures).
It may be beneficial to primarily use interdental brushes and supplement with dental floss for cleaning.
Regarding your question about whether the braces need to be redone, I recommend seeking a complete diagnosis and treatment from a dentist.

Reply Date: 2018/10/12

More Info

Addressing bad odor around braces can be a multifaceted issue that often stems from a combination of factors, including dental hygiene practices, the presence of cavities, and the materials used in dental treatments. Let's break down the potential causes and solutions to your concerns.

1. Possible Problems: The foul odor you are experiencing around your braces could be attributed to several factors. The most common cause is the accumulation of food particles and plaque around the brackets and wires, which can lead to bacterial growth and, consequently, bad breath. Additionally, the X-ray findings suggest the presence of a cavity, which can also contribute to unpleasant odors. Cavities can harbor bacteria that produce sulfur compounds, leading to a foul smell. If the previous dental treatment involved materials that can degrade or emit odors over time, this could also be a contributing factor.

2. Cleaning After Meals: Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is crucial when wearing braces. It is essential to clean your teeth thoroughly after every meal. This includes brushing your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and using an interdental brush or floss specifically designed for braces to remove food particles and plaque from between the brackets and wires. Rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash can also help reduce bacteria in the mouth, which may alleviate the odor. If you consistently practice good oral hygiene, you should see an improvement in the odor over time.

3. Need for Remaking Braces: Whether or not your braces need to be redone depends on the extent of the cavity and the condition of your current braces. If the cavity is significant and requires treatment, your orthodontist may need to address it before proceeding with any adjustments to your braces. In some cases, if the braces are causing issues with the cavity or if they are damaged, they may need to be replaced. However, this is typically determined on a case-by-case basis by your orthodontist.

4. Differences in X-ray Equipment: The precision of X-ray equipment can vary significantly between dental clinics and larger hospitals. Dental offices often use standard dental X-ray machines that are designed for routine examinations, while hospitals may have more advanced imaging technology, such as cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), which provides a more detailed view of the teeth and surrounding structures. If your dentist suspects that there is a more complex issue at play, or if the initial X-ray did not provide clear results, it may be beneficial to seek a second opinion and possibly have a more comprehensive imaging study done at a hospital.

In conclusion, addressing bad odor around braces involves a combination of diligent oral hygiene practices, timely dental treatment for cavities, and possibly further imaging to assess any underlying issues. If the odor persists despite improved cleaning, or if you have concerns about the integrity of your braces, it is advisable to consult with your orthodontist for a thorough evaluation and appropriate treatment options. Regular dental check-ups are also essential to monitor your oral health and ensure that any issues are addressed promptly.

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