What Does Halitosis Smell Like?

Bad breath, medically called halitosis, affects approximately 50% of adults in the United States. While halitosis may be temporary and not concerning, it can sometimes be an indication of an underlying health issue. In some cases, the specific odor of the breath can help point to the underlying cause. Below are more details about common types of bad breath odors and some easy tips to address your bad breath.

Common Bad Breath Smells

Halitosis odors can range from sweet and fruity to rotten. These smells may help serve as indicators of the underlying cause. Some common bad breath odors include:

  1. Sweet or fruity breath: Fruity breath may be a sign of unmanaged diabetes. When diabetes is left untreated, it can lead to a dangerous health condition called diabetic ketoacidosis. Eating low or no carbohydrate diets or fasting can also cause sweet-smelling or metallic breath. This occurs because low-carb diets force the body to burn fat as fuel, which leads to chemicals called ketones being released in the breath and urine.
  2. Rotten-smelling breath: Breath that smells like rotting tissue may be caused by an abscess or infection in the mouth, throat, or lungs, such as a sinus infection with excessive mucus. Food trapped between teeth, or under dentures, crowns, or orthodontic devices, can lead to bacterial growth that may produce an odor similar to decay or rotting food.
  3. Breath that smells sour: Sour breath may be a sign of a gastrointestinal issue or vomiting. For example, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) occurs when the muscle between the esophagus and stomach does not close properly. This allows stomach acid to flow back up into the esophagus, throat, or mouth. Stomach acid from GERD or vomiting may cause the breath to smell sour.

Tips for Addressing Bad Breath

Determining the best treatment for bad breath depends on identifying the underlying cause. If you believe you know what may be causing your bad breath, you can try some of these easy steps:

  1. Daily oral hygiene: Focusing on daily oral hygiene is one of the best ways to reduce bad breath. Flossing at least once per day helps remove food particles and plaque from between the teeth. Brushing your tongue can also help remove bacteria from the tongue.
  2. Quitting smoking: Approximately 80% of smokers have halitosis. Smoking not only causes bad breath but can also contribute to gum disease and dry mouth. Quitting tobacco can help improve breath and reduce the risk of many other serious health conditions.
  3. Treating dry mouth: Saliva plays an important role in breaking down food and controlling bacterial growth in the mouth. When there is not enough saliva, dry mouth can develop and lead to bad breath. Some medications may cause dry mouth, and adjusting medication may help reduce symptoms. Staying hydrated and sleeping with a humidifier in your room may also help relieve dry mouth.

Most cases of bad breath are caused by conditions inside the mouth or throat, including bacteria, gum disease, cavities, dry mouth, or infections. To treat bad breath, you can start by improving your dental hygiene routine and scheduling a dental checkup. If your dentist cannot identify the cause of your bad breath, it may be time to speak with your doctor.

Related Article: What is Halitosis?