Metallic Smell Bad Breath

Bad breath, or halitosis, usually smells like rotten eggs. Sometimes other unpleasant smells or odors may also be noticed. The cause could be traced back to sulfur compounds that are released as waste products by bacteria living inside the mouth. However, there are instances when metallic smell bad breath occurs. This unusual symptom could indicate that the individual is suffering from a condition other than simple bad breath.

How to Identify the Problem

Metallic smell bad breath is a rare symptom. Only very few people have metallic smelling breath and usually it is due to an underlying condition that may have caused unusual symptoms like metallic smell bad breath.

It should also be noted that persons who claim to have metallic smell bad breath may only describe the condition as such because their sense of smell is a little off, due to viral infection or some other cause. As such, metallic smell bad breath may well turn out to be illusory for these people. That’s why it is important to have a doctor confirm the symptom first.

There are many things that can cause a metallic taste in the mouth. But having a metallic taste in the mouth does not mean that the odor coming from the mouth is also metallic. Stated otherwise, you should not make the mistake of assuming that you have metallic smell bad breath if you experience a metallic taste in your mouth.

What Causes the Problem?

As previously mentioned, metallic smell bad breath may be due to an underlying condition that the individual is not quite aware of. For instance, stomach problems, such as heartburn, jaundice, metal poisoning, and other types of poisoning, has been known to cause a metal-like taste and create a metallic smell bad breath. Dental problems, many drugs, and pregnancy are also factors that could make a person prone to this condition.

If you have any of these problems, then you now have an idea where this metallic smelling breath comes from. But again, consult your doctor before making any assumptions about your condition. Getting a second opinion would not hurt either.

Treat the Problem

Since metallic smell bad breath is just a symptom of a completely different condition, solving the condition is the best treatment option you have for metallic smelling breath. But while undergoing treatment for the underlying problem, you can temporarily solve the malady of metallic smell bad breath by taking strong breath mints or other strong flavors that can overpower an unpleasant one. Lemon cloves and cinnamon are often very effective for temporary relief.

Furthermore, oral hygiene is a must, whether you have bad breath or not. There are over 170 different types of bacteria that thrive in your mouth, feeding on the leftover foods there. As they digest these foods, they release odorous substances that cause bad breath. By keeping your mouth and teeth clean, you minimize the population of bacteria in your mouth and cure bad breath.