Having a foul, gas-like odor in the mouth
Mar 25, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Chao
Introduction
A foul smell in the mouth usually refers to bad breath (halitosis), which may be caused by dietary factors, poor oral hygiene, dry mouth, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), chronic periodontitis, etc. Improvements can be made depending on the specific cause. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention at a hospital and receive treatment under the guidance of a doctor. Reduce consumption of foods with strong odors, and alleviate bad breath by drinking milk, eating peanuts, or similar methods.
Bad breath, commonly referred to as having a "fart-like" odor in the mouth, may be caused by various factors such as diet, poor oral hygiene, dry mouth, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or chronic periodontitis. The condition can be improved depending on the underlying cause. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention and receive treatment under the guidance of a doctor.
1. Dietary Factors
Consuming foods with strong odors—such as garlic, onions, and Chinese chives—can lead to bad breath. Compounds from these foods are absorbed into the bloodstream and eventually expelled through the lungs during breathing, causing unpleasant breath odor. Try to reduce intake of pungent foods and alleviate odor by drinking milk or eating peanuts. Quit smoking, limit alcohol consumption, and maintain good oral hygiene.
2. Poor Oral Hygiene
If teeth are not regularly brushed and flossed, food particles accumulate on tooth surfaces, between teeth, and on the tongue. These residues are broken down by oral bacteria, producing foul-smelling gases that result in bad breath. Maintain proper oral hygiene by brushing at least twice daily, using dental floss to clean between teeth, and cleaning the tongue surface with a tongue brush or scraper to minimize buildup of food debris and bacteria.
3. Dry Mouth
Insufficient saliva production reduces the mouth’s natural self-cleaning ability. Saliva helps wash away food particles and bacteria; when saliva is lacking, bacterial growth increases, leading to bad breath. Increase fluid intake to keep the mouth moist, drink water frequently, avoid prolonged mouth breathing, and try to breathe through the nose whenever possible.
4. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
GERD occurs when stomach contents flow back into the esophagus and even into the mouth. The refluxed material contains gastric acid and enzymes like pepsin, which irritate the lining of the esophagus and oral mucosa, producing an unpleasant odor. Additionally, any food remnants in the regurgitated material can be decomposed by oral bacteria, worsening bad breath. Patients may also experience symptoms such as heartburn and acid regurgitation. It is advisable to take medications such as omeprazole enteric-coated capsules, domperidone tablets, or hydrotalcite chewable tablets under a doctor's supervision to relieve discomfort.
5. Chronic Periodontitis
Chronic periodontitis may be associated with poor oral habits or infections. Once developed, it can lead to necrotizing ulcers and gingivitis. If left uncontrolled over time, it may produce a persistent sour and foul smell. Regular tooth brushing is recommended, and symptom relief may be achieved with medications such as roxithromycin tablets, levofloxacin capsules, or cefuroxime axetil tablets, used under medical guidance.
In daily life, maintain a light diet and avoid spicy or irritating foods such as garlic, hot pot, and wasabi. Ensure adequate rest and avoid excessive fatigue, which could negatively affect overall health.
