If you have bad breath, or halitosis, you could have dental issues or a problem in your digestive tract, or it could be the result of metabolic processes in your body. More than 500 different types of bacteria can be found in your mouth, either on your tongue or in the crevices between your teeth. This collection of bacteria causes the release of volatile sulfuric compounds (VSCs), which are gases that make you have bad breath.
The following examples are common types of bad breath odors:
- Rotten Garbage. An abscess or infection in your mouth, throat, or lungs can cause your breath to smell like rotting tissue. Also, old or defective fillings or ill-fitting crowns, orthodontic devices, and dentures can cause a rotten smell due to decaying food particles that are wedged in gaps or openings between your teeth.
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) occurs when acid from your stomach flows backward into your esophagus and sometimes your mouth. GERD can give your breath a sour smell, similar to partially digested food.
- Your breath can have a fishy smell if you have an enzyme disorder where your body cannot break down the organic compound trimethylamine.
- Sweet or Fruity. Diabetes that is not properly managed can lead to a dangerous health condition called diabetic ketoacidosis, which can cause your breath to smell sweet or fruity. See a medical doctor immediately.
- Ammonia or Urine. Breath with the odor of ammonia or urine is known as azotemia and is typically caused by kidney damage from injury or disease.
- People with liver disease, including cirrhosis, have breath with a characteristically musty smell produced by volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that build up in the body when the liver is not properly functioning.
- A bowel obstruction, or blockage of waste flow in your intestines, can cause extremely foul bad breath that smells like feces. Seek immediate medical attention. A bowel obstruction can be fatal.
Sometimes, bad breath is the result of a low-carb diet or fasting, which causes your body to burn fat for fuel instead of carbohydrates. This can change the smell of your breath to a fruity, sweet, or acetone (nail polish remover) odor.
Other breath odors, including maple syrup, boiled cabbage, and sweaty feet, are typically rare but should not be ignored. See your dentist or doctor.
Good Oral Hygiene is the Best Remedy for Bad Breath
Brushing your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes and flossing daily are the first steps in preventing bad breath. Flossing is especially important because food particles caught between your teeth cause odors as they break down. A water-jet device might work better at removing food particles than floss if you wear braces, a bridge, or other dental devices. Also, use a bacteria-killing mouthwash with fluoride to freshen your breath and protect your teeth and gums.
Bad breath is usually caused by an issue in your mouth or throat. But in some cases, a more serious medical condition can cause a particular mouth odor. If you have persistent bad breath, see your dentist or regular healthcare provider to rule out a more serious health condition.