Veneers, or dental shells, are a cosmetic procedure consisting of a thin layer placed over the outer surface of damaged teeth to give the teeth a suitable shape. Veneers help resolve dental problems such as uneven teeth, gaps between teeth, or broken teeth. But is there a relationship between veneers and bad breath? Dr. Mohammad Khaled Nofal, specialist in dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, and dental implants, provides the answer in this article.
Do Veneers Cause Bad Breath?
Yes, veneers may cause bad breath in some cases related to the patient's personal hygiene or to the way the veneers were placed.
Causes of Bad Breath After Veneer Placement
The causes of bad breath after veneer placement include the following:
Insufficient Tooth Cleaning
There is no doubt that neglecting to clean the teeth leads to bad breath in general, and particularly for people who have had veneers placed.
To avoid this problem, the dentist recommends brushing and cleaning the teeth at least twice a day, especially after eating, along with using dental floss. This is because the buildup of food between the teeth creates a suitable environment for bacteria to multiply, which in turn causes bad breath.
Dry Mouth
Dry mouth is another common cause of bad breath. Dry mouth means a lack of saliva, and saliva is essential for washing away food particles and bacteria; therefore, not having enough saliva contributes to bad breath.
Some things that can cause dry mouth include:
Not drinking enough fluids, especially during the summer.
A side effect of some medications.
Nerve damage.
Smoking.
Below, Dr. Mohammad Nofal offers some instructions to relieve dry mouth:
Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Chew sugar-free gum or suck on sugar-free hard candy.
Run a humidifier while sleeping.
Avoid tobacco products.
Limit caffeine intake.
Tooth Decay
If the teeth are not brushed and flossed regularly, plaque and tartar can build up on the veneers and around the teeth, ultimately leading to the formation of cavities and tooth decay.
No symptoms may appear in the early stages, but as the decay progresses, the patient may feel pain, sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, and bad breath.
If you have tooth decay while having veneers placed, do not hesitate to consult Dr. Mohammad Nofal about the best option for you, because if decay is left untreated, it can lead to an infection or abscess, which may cause further damage to your teeth and this in itself also causes bad breath.
Veneers Not Placed Correctly
Before placing veneers, measurements of the teeth are usually taken to design the dental shells or veneers professionally to suit the patient's case. However, if the veneer is not placed correctly, it may cause many problems, including bad breath.
An improperly placed veneer can cause food particles and bacteria to accumulate and become trapped beneath it, which may lead to bad breath.
In addition, the veneer may press on the gums, causing irritation and inflammation, and this can also lead to bad breath.
Therefore, if you think the veneer has not been placed correctly, make sure to visit the dentist immediately so that they can adjust it or replace it with a more suitable veneer if necessary.
Gum Problems
Gum disease is another health condition that can cause bad breath after veneer placement. Gum problems can lead to gingivitis.
The following are risk factors that can increase the chances of developing gum disease:
Poor oral hygiene.
Medications that cause dry mouth.
Damaged bridges.
Crooked teeth.
Damaged fillings.
Smoking.
Diabetes.
Female hormonal changes, including those that occur during pregnancy or with the use of oral contraceptives.
Heredity.
Stress and strain.
As for the symptoms of gum disease, they include:
The following are the signs and symptoms of gum disease:
Redness or swelling of the gums.
Gums that bleed easily.
Gum recession, meaning the pulling back of the gum tissue surrounding the tooth.
Pain when chewing.
Loose teeth.
Bad breath.
Increased tooth sensitivity.
The Foods That Are Consumed
Some foods can cause bad breath because of the strong odors they release when chewed.
The most well-known examples include:
Garlic and onions.
Spicy foods.
Dairy products such as milk, cheese, and other dairy products can cause bad breath due to the breakdown of lactose in the mouth.
Fish, as it contains a lot of protein that can be broken down by the bacteria in the mouth, which may produce an unpleasant odor.
Coffee and tea can stain the teeth, which makes the breath smell unpleasant.
Sugary foods can lead to tooth decay, which may cause bad breath.
General Tips to Prevent Bad Breath After Veneer Placement
To avoid bad breath, you can follow these instructions:
Brush and Floss Regularly
You can remove the plaque and bacteria that cause bad breath from your teeth and gums by flossing and brushing your teeth at least twice a day.
Use Mouthwash
To help eliminate bacteria and freshen the breath, it is recommended to rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash.
Avoid Certain Foods and Drinks
Foods and drinks that cause bad breath, such as garlic, onions, coffee, and others, are best avoided, or brush your teeth immediately after consuming them.
Quit Smoking
Smoking can cause bad breath and discoloration of the veneer.
Regular Dental Check-Ups
You should visit the dentist regularly to make sure of the condition of the veneers and to receive proper care for the mouth and teeth.
Clean Your Veneer Properly
Veneers require special care, so make sure to clean them properly using a gentle toothpaste and a soft-bristled brush to avoid scratching or damaging the veneer.
While veneers do not directly cause bad breath, failing to maintain oral hygiene can be a major contributor to bad breath. Therefore, the dentist recommends brushing the teeth regularly, flossing, and seeing the dentist for a professional dental cleaning.
There are also other causes of bad breath after veneer placement, so if you are unable to get rid of it, you should see the dentist.
References:
Is it the dental veneers?: Find out what’s causing your bad breath. (2022, August 26). Karrinyup Dental Centre. https://karrinyupdental.com.au/is-it-the-dental-veneers-find-out-whats-causing-your-bad-breath/#:~:text
Minoo. (2024, February 22). Can veneers cause bad breath? A comprehensive guide. Gorgeous Smiles Dental. https://www.gorgeoussmiles.com.au/porcelain-veneers-melbourne/can-veneers-cause-bad-breath-a-comprehensive-guide/
