I got a new dental crown in March and have had oral sores and a yeast infection since then. My saliva is in overdrive, but my lips are chapped and have sores in the corners. Makes no sense. With sores and an oral infection, my breath is strong, and I have a bitter taste. Sugar and gluten make things worse. Could the new crown or the process of getting it cause a yeast infection? I am concerned that I will need a replacement crown. I always need sedation at the dentist anyway and worry about undergoing another procedure. Thank you. Soleia from San Jose
Soleia,
Your signs and symptoms may be related to your dental treatment, yet have different sources.
- Oral yeast infection and sores – Stress can cause oral infections, but the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention acknowledges that other factors, including a weak immune system, antibiotics, and health factors, may contribute to oral yeast infection.
- Bad breath and bitter taste – Bad breath alone can have a variety of causes. Bad breath and bitter taste often improve with better oral hygiene, which can be challenging if your mouth is sore and irritated.
What Is Causing Your Signs and Symptoms?
Although a new crown usually does not cause oral sores or thrust, contact your dentist or primary care doctor
A stressful dental appointment can lead to burning mouth syndrome, which often includes dry mouth. But if your saliva production has increased, burning your mouth would not be the cause. Still, stress can cause an oral yeast infection and sores without having burning mouth syndrome.
Extra care with flossing at least once daily and brushing your teeth after each meal can improve bad breath and bitter taste. If the infection and excess saliva production continue, schedule an appointment with your dentist. You may need an antibiotic called Nystatin to clear the infection.
You haven’t told us about any discomfort with the crown, so you should not need a new one. Nor does it seem that you need to worry about needing dental care and sedation to resolve your concerns. Schedule an appointment with your dentist or primary care doctor for an exam and further advice.
Sugar Land, Texas, dentist Dr. Siny Thomas of Cornerstone Dentistry sponsors this post.