Before last fall, I had not been to a dentist in 3 years. I decided to do something about my crooked teeth, so I went to an Invisalign consultation. The dentist agreed that Invisalign would work for me, but she required a full exam to ensure my teeth were healthy. Not surprisingly, I had some tooth decay and needed fillings. An old crown was cracked, so my dentist told me that she needed to restore my teeth before I could get Invisalign treatment. After my dentist placed the temporary crown, my teeth were hyper-sensitive. Now that I received the permanent crown, my lips are chapped, the corners of my mouth are sore, my breath smells, and my saliva production is excessive. I have noted that sugar and gluten seem to make the symptoms work. I suspect that I have a yeast infection that will not go away, but I am skeptical about seeing this dentist again or trusting her for my Invisalign treatment. Could my dental crown be causing these issues? – Thank you. Craig from TN
Craig,
Thank you for submitting your inquiry to our office. You have many symptoms that likely have different causes but could be related to your dental treatment.
Oral Yeast Infection
Overgrowth of candida—a fungus that normally lives on our skin and in our bodies—can lead to yeast infection. An oral yeast infection can result from stress, antibiotics, diabetes, and dry mouth.
Excessive Saliva
Some causes of excess saliva include:
- Allergies
- Sinus infection
- Heartburn
- Certain medications
- Difficulty swallowing due to a nervous system disorder
- Oral infection
Sores in the Corner of Your Mouth
Excess saliva can buildup bacteria in your mouth that causes sores and dry lips.
What Causes Bad Breath and Bitter Taste?
May factors can cause bad breath, including:
- Poor oral hygiene
- Tobacco products
- Certain medications
- Dry mouth
- Oral infection
- Sinus drainage
Bitter taste in your mouth
Some cause of a bitter taste in your mouth include:
- Acid reflux
- Some medications
- Poor oral hygiene
- Dehydration
- Smoking
Our experience shows that a stressful dental appointment and dental restorations that do not fit or function well can lead to additional stress. Burning mouth syndrome can result from stress and cause sensitivity, pain, and dryness. And many patients with a sore mouth are more delicate than usual with their oral hygiene.
What you can do:
- Thoroughly floss daily
- Thoroughly brush your teeth at least twice daily
- If your symptoms do not improve, you may need an antibiotic
Establish good oral health to avoid interrupting Invisalign treatment
If you are uncomfortable with our dentist, you can consider getting a second opinion on your new crown’s condition. Seek a resolution to avoid interrupting your Invisalign treatment to correct issues with your crown.
Best wishes.
Dr. Steven Brookser, an accredited cosmetic dentist in Baton Rouge, LA, sponsors this post.
