Do Wisdom Teeth Cause Bad Breath? Here’s What You Need to Know
Wisdom teeth, the third molars that emerge in your late teens or early twenties, can often cause bad breath (halitosis) and other dental issues. At Springvale Dental Clinic in Springvale South and Bayswater Dentist in Bayswater, we’re here to explain why wisdom teeth can contribute to bad breath and how to care for them to avoid further problems.
Why Do Wisdom Teeth Cause Bad Breath?
- Difficulty Cleaning Around the Teeth
Wisdom teeth are located at the back of your mouth, making them hard to reach, especially if they’re partially erupted. Even with good brushing, food and plaque can build up, providing a breeding ground for bacteria that produce sulfur compounds, which lead to bad breath.
- Gum Inflammation or Infection
As wisdom teeth emerge, the surrounding gums can become inflamed, a condition called pericoronitis. This infection can cause bad breath as bacteria break down food particles and tissue.
- Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Partially erupted or impacted wisdom teeth (teeth that haven’t fully emerged) can trap food and bacteria, increasing the risk of infection and bad breath.
- Tooth Decay
Wisdom teeth that are hard to clean properly can become decayed, leading to bacteria buildup that contributes to bad breath.
How to Prevent Bad Breath When You Have Wisdom Teeth
- Thorough Oral Hygiene
Brush and floss thoroughly, especially around your wisdom teeth. Use a toothbrush with a small head and soft bristles to clean the back of your mouth. Consider using antimicrobial mouthwash to kill bacteria.
- Use a Water Flosser
If flossing around wisdom teeth is difficult, a water flosser (such as a Waterpik) can help remove food particles and plaque from hard-to-reach places.
- Saltwater Rinses
A warm saltwater rinse can soothe irritated gums and reduce bacteria around your wisdom teeth, helping to treat bad breath caused by infection or inflammation.
- Regular Dental Checkups
Regular visits to the dentist are essential. Your dentist can spot early signs of decay, infection, or impaction, and help clean areas that are tough to reach at home.
- Consider Wisdom Teeth Removal
If your wisdom teeth are severely impacted or causing persistent bad breath, infection, or pain, your dentist may recommend removal. This can eliminate the source of bad breath and prevent further oral health problems.
When to See a Dentist
If you experience bad breath along with pain, swelling, or difficulty chewing, it’s important to see a dentist. These could be signs of an infection or other issues that need professional treatment.
Final Thoughts
While wisdom teeth don’t directly cause bad breath, their location and the difficulty of cleaning them can contribute to halitosis. By maintaining good oral hygiene, using tools like water flossers, and visiting your dentist regularly, you can manage your wisdom teeth and reduce bad breath. If issues persist, wisdom teeth removal may be the best solution.
At Springvale Dental Clinic and Bayswater Dental Clinic, we accept a variety of insurance providers including Bupa, Medibank, HCF, NIB, and more. We also offer convenient payment plans such as Afterpay, Humm, Denticare, and TLC to make dental care more affordable.
Book your appointment today and take control of your oral health!