Odors from Dental Adhesives: Causes and Solutions

The smell of adhesive?

Hello Doctor: Last October, the crowns for my upper left central incisor (tooth #7) and upper left lateral incisor (tooth #6) fell off (the two crowns are connected).
The dentist at the clinic used an adhesive to secure them, but later I noticed a persistent bad taste in my mouth.
After using an interdental brush, I discovered that there was an odor between the two crowns and between the upper left lateral incisor and upper left canine (tooth #5).
In December, I returned to the clinic, and the dentist performed a dental cleaning, stating that the odor was caused by plaque and tartar.
However, after the cleaning, the bad taste still persisted.
I would like to ask if the taste of the adhesive could potentially cause this situation, and whether the areas where the adhesive was applied could be exposed on the surface of the crown or seep out from inside.

Ping, 60~69 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/02/18

Dr. Huang Tingfang reply Dentistry

Dear Ms.
Ping,
Hello! In fact, most dental adhesives are odorless.
Cleaning your teeth thoroughly should help reduce any odor.
Please communicate more with your dentist.
Thank you! Wishing you safety!
Sincerely,
Dr.
Huang Ting-Fang, Dentistry

Reply Date: 2019/02/18

More Info

Understanding odors from dental adhesives can be a perplexing issue, especially when it involves dental crowns or bridges. In your case, it seems that the persistent bad odor is linked to the area between your dental crowns (the left upper 1 and left upper 2) and possibly the surrounding teeth. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the potential causes and solutions.

Causes of Odor from Dental Adhesives
1. Bacterial Accumulation: The most common cause of bad odors in the mouth, especially around dental work, is the accumulation of bacteria. If food particles or plaque get trapped between the crowns or around the adhesive, they can lead to bacterial growth, resulting in unpleasant smells.
2. Dental Adhesive Composition: While dental adhesives are designed to be safe and effective, some patients may experience sensitivity to the materials used. If the adhesive is not fully set or if it has degraded over time, it could potentially leach out or emit an odor.
3. Gum Disease: If there is underlying gum disease (gingivitis or periodontitis), it can contribute to bad breath and odors. The inflammation and infection can produce a foul smell, which may be exacerbated by the presence of dental work.

4. Dental Calculus: As you mentioned, your dentist noted the presence of tartar (calculus). Even after a cleaning, if there are areas that are difficult to reach, bacteria can continue to thrive, leading to persistent odors.

5. Decay Underneath the Crown: If there is decay present beneath the crown that was not addressed, it can also produce an odor. This is particularly concerning if the decay has progressed to the point of affecting the tooth structure.

Solutions to Address the Odor
1. Thorough Dental Cleaning: If you haven’t already, consider scheduling a follow-up appointment for a thorough cleaning. Your dentist can use specialized tools to clean areas that are difficult to reach with regular brushing.

2. Check the Fit of the Crowns: It’s essential to ensure that the crowns are properly fitted. If there are gaps or if they are not sealed correctly, food particles can become trapped, leading to odor. Your dentist can evaluate this during your next visit.

3. Use of Antimicrobial Mouthwash: Incorporating an antimicrobial mouthwash into your oral hygiene routine can help reduce bacteria in your mouth. Look for products that contain chlorhexidine or cetylpyridinium chloride.

4. Flossing and Interdental Brushes: Regular flossing is crucial, especially around crowns. Consider using interdental brushes or soft picks to clean between your crowns and adjacent teeth effectively.

5. Evaluate the Adhesive: If you suspect that the adhesive itself is causing the odor, discuss this with your dentist. They may need to remove the crowns, clean the area thoroughly, and reapply a different adhesive.

6. Regular Dental Check-ups: Regular visits to your dentist are essential for maintaining oral health, especially after receiving dental work. They can monitor for any signs of decay or gum disease that could contribute to odor.

7. Dietary Considerations: Certain foods can exacerbate bad breath. Reducing the intake of sugary foods and beverages can help minimize plaque buildup.

Conclusion
Persistent odors from dental adhesives can be frustrating and concerning. It is essential to maintain good oral hygiene and consult with your dentist about your specific situation. They can provide tailored advice and treatment options to address the underlying causes of the odor. Remember, your oral health is crucial not only for your teeth but also for your overall well-being. Regular check-ups and open communication with your dental care provider will help ensure that any issues are promptly addressed.

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