Why do I taste mothballs?
Tryptophan is used by bacteria in the mouth to produce the molecule skatole, which smells really bad. Skatole gives animal manure its distinctive smell and can make human breath take on the displeasing scent of mothballs. Tryptophan is also found in mucus.
Why do I smell like mothballs?
People with sinus problems often emit a scent reminiscent of mothballs. This is because the mucus formed when you have a stuffy nose or congested throat contains very dense proteins. It is these proteins, which are hard for the body to break down, that contain that very distinctive odour.
How do you fix mothball breath?
To reduce or prevent bad breath:
- Brush your teeth after you eat. Keep a toothbrush at work to use after eating.
- Floss at least once a day.
- Brush your tongue.
- Clean dentures or dental appliances.
- Avoid dry mouth.
- Adjust your diet.
- Regularly get a new toothbrush.
- Schedule regular dental checkups.
10-Mar-2018