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In Phoenix, many people notice a strong and unpleasant odor in their mouths. This often comes from tooth decay. The tooth decay smell happens when food, bacteria, and plaque build up inside a damaged tooth. If you do not treat it, the smell can get worse. This guide explains what causes it, how to treat it, and how to stop it from coming back.
Do Cavities Cause Bad Breath?
Yes, cavities in Phoenix can cause bad breath. A cavity is a hole in the tooth. Bacteria grow inside this hole and create a bad smell. The deeper the cavity gets, the worse the smell becomes. Causes of bad breath from cavities include:
- Food stuck inside the hole.
- Bacteria that grow in the cavity.
- Waste from bacteria that smells sour or rotten.
- Gases from bacteria that smell like eggs or metal.
- Infection inside the tooth if the cavity gets worse.
- Poor cleaning around the decayed tooth.
Recognizing the Symptoms of Rotten Tooth Smell
A rotten tooth smell in Phoenix, AZ, is strong and does not go away. It often comes from one side of the mouth. It can also leave a bad taste. This smell usually means the tooth is damaged and needs treatment. Common signs include:
- Bad smell from one part of the mouth.
- Bad taste that stays all day.
- Pain when biting or chewing.
- Pain when drinking something cold.
- A dark spot or hole in the tooth.
- Swollen or red gums near the tooth.
- Bleeding gums around the tooth.
Treatment Options for Rotten Tooth Smell
Only a good dental expert can fix a decayed tooth and stop the tooth decay smell. The smell will not go away on its own. The dentist will choose the right treatment based on how bad the decay is. Common treatments include:
Treatment | What It Does |
Filling | The dentist cleans the cavity and fills the hole to stop decay and smell. |
The dentist removes infected tissue from inside the tooth if the decay is deep. | |
Tooth Removal | The dentist takes out the tooth if it cannot be saved. |
Deep Cleaning | The dentist cleans under the gums to remove bacteria causing the smell. |
Antibiotics | The dentist gives medicine to treat any infection in the tooth or gums. |
Home Remedies to Eliminate Bad Breath
You can try a few natural remedies at home to help with bad breath before you visit the dentist. These may help reduce the tooth decay smell for a short time, but they do not fix the tooth itself. Home remedies you can try include:
Remedy | What It Does |
Green tea | Kills bacteria and helps freshen breath |
Zinc (lozenges or rinse) | Blocks smelly gases and helps reduce mouth odor |
Clove oil | Fights bacteria and lowers bad smell when applied to the tooth |
Baking soda rinse | Neutralizes acid and helps clean the mouth |
Apple cider vinegar rinse | Fights odor and reduces bacteria when diluted with water |
Activated charcoal | Absorbs toxins and helps remove bad smells |
Parsley | Acts as a natural breath freshener when chewed |
How to Prevent Rotten Tooth Smell?
The best way to stop the tooth decay smell is to keep your teeth healthy. This means taking care of your mouth every day and visiting the dentist regularly. Follow these simple steps:
- Brush your teeth 2 times every day.
- Use toothpaste with fluoride.
- Floss one time each day.
- Visit the dentist two times a year for cleanings and checkups.
- Eat fewer sugary snacks and drinks.
- Drink water instead of soda or juice.
- Ask the dentist about sealants if you get cavities often.
- Look for signs like pain or bleeding gums and get help early.
Last Word
A strong mouth odor often points to tooth decay in Phoenix. The tooth decay smell will not go away with brushing or mouthwash alone. Only a dentist can treat the decayed tooth and stop the smell for good. It is important to act early before the problem gets worse. Taking care of your teeth helps protect your health and confidence.
FAQs
What Does a Cavity Smell Like?
A cavity may smell like something sour or rotten. It can also have a metallic or spoiled odor.
Does Bad Breath Go Away After Filling a Cavity?
Yes. When the dentist removes the decay and fills the hole, the smell usually goes away.
Can a Smelly Tooth Be Saved?
Yes. If the dentist treats the tooth early, they can often save it with a filling or root canal.
Can One Tooth Make Your Breath Smell?
Yes. A single decayed or infected tooth can cause a strong and bad smell in your mouth.
