Bad breath, or halitosis, can be a real problem. Not only is it embarrassing, but it can really impact your confidence and how you interact with people.
But sometimes, bad breath is more than just bad breath. If your breath smells like poop, that’s a specific and concerning type of halitosis that needs attention. It’s often a sign that something else is going on in your body that needs to be addressed.
So, what causes breath to smell like poop? What are the health implications? And what can you do about it? We’ll explore both oral and non-oral causes, and give you actionable steps to take to tackle this unpleasant problem.
What Causes Breath to Smell Like Poop?
If your breath smells like poop, it could be caused by one of several things, including:
Poor Oral Hygiene: The Foundation of Foul Odors
The most common cause of bad breath is poor oral hygiene. If you don’t brush and floss regularly, food particles will remain in your mouth, where they’ll be broken down by bacteria. This breakdown process releases volatile sulfuric compounds (VSCs), which are responsible for that unpleasant odor. One study identified more than 500 different strains of bacteria that can be found in the average human mouth.
Plaque, that sticky film that forms on your teeth, provides a breeding ground for bacteria. If plaque isn’t removed regularly, it can harden into tartar, which is even more difficult to remove and can harbor even more odor-causing bacteria.
Some of the most commonly neglected oral hygiene practices include inconsistent brushing and flossing and failing to clean the tongue, where bacteria can accumulate.
Gastrointestinal Issues: When the Gut Affects the Mouth
Sometimes, the problem originates in your gut. For instance, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can cause bad breath. With GERD, stomach acid and partially digested food can reflux into the esophagus and mouth, creating an unpleasant odor.
In severe cases, bowel obstructions can lead to a backup of intestinal contents, which may release fecal odors through the breath.
Other gastrointestinal conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), can sometimes contribute to bad breath.
Infections: A Breeding Ground for Bacteria
Oral infections, such as tooth abscesses and gum disease (periodontitis), can cause bad breath. These infections involve bacteria and pus formation, which can lead to a foul odor.
Sinus infections and other respiratory infections can also contribute. Postnasal drip can carry bacteria and mucus into the mouth, while bronchiectasis can cause bad breath with a fetid odor.
Diet and lifestyle factors that impact breath odor
What you eat and how you live can influence the way your breath smells. Here’s a look at some of the most common culprits.
The role of diet
Foods like garlic and onions are notorious for causing temporary bad breath because they contain compounds that are absorbed into your bloodstream and then released through your lungs. So, even brushing and flossing won’t get rid of the odor until those compounds have run their course.
A low-carb diet or fasting can also affect your breath because they can lead to ketosis, a metabolic state in which your body starts burning fat for fuel. Ketones, the byproducts of fat metabolism, can cause a fruity or even acetone-like smell on your breath.
Also, it’s important to stay hydrated, since dry mouth (or xerostomia) allows bacteria to thrive, which can lead to bad breath.
The impact of lifestyle choices
Smoking is another major contributor to bad breath and poor oral health. Tobacco products contain chemicals that not only stink but also increase your risk of gum disease.
Alcohol and coffee can also cause dry mouth, which, as we’ve established, is a breeding ground for odor-causing bacteria. These substances can dehydrate your body and reduce saliva production, leaving your mouth dry and your breath less than fresh.
Certain medications, such as antihistamines, can also cause dry mouth, further contributing to the problem.
What if the bad breath persists?
Chronic bad breath can be a sign of deeper problems, so it’s best to get to the bottom of it.
Oral health concerns
Bad breath can be a sign of underlying problems like gum disease and tooth decay. Untreated gum disease can lead to tooth loss, and cavities harbor bacteria and decaying material, which can make your breath smell worse.
Regular dental checkups are important so your dentist can spot and treat any problems early, before they get too serious.
Underlying medical conditions
Sometimes, bad breath can be a symptom of systemic diseases like diabetes, kidney disease, and liver disease. For example, diabetic ketoacidosis can cause breath that smells fruity, while kidney disease can cause breath that smells like ammonia or urine. Liver disease, like cirrhosis, can sometimes cause breath to smell musty.
If you’re doing everything right with your oral hygiene but your breath still smells bad, it’s worth seeing a doctor to get checked out. Persistent bad breath could be a sign of something more serious going on in your body.
How to Treat and Prevent Breath That Smells Like Poop
If you’re concerned about your breath, there are several things you can do to resolve the issue and prevent it from recurring.
Improving Oral Hygiene
It’s always a good idea to brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste to get rid of food particles and plaque. Also, floss every day to get rid of plaque from between your teeth in places your toothbrush can’t reach. Finally, use a tongue scraper to remove odor-causing bacteria from your tongue, where they love to hang out.
Dietary and Lifestyle Adjustments
Drink plenty of water to keep your mouth moist and wash away food. You may want to limit foods that cause bad breath, like garlic and onions, since those can temporarily make the problem worse. Also, if you smoke, try to quit, and limit your alcohol consumption. These habits can dry out your mouth and make your breath smell worse.
Seeking Professional Help
See your dentist for regular checkups and professional cleanings. Your dentist can spot and treat problems that may be contributing to your bad breath. If your bad breath won’t go away, or if you have other symptoms, it’s a good idea to talk with a healthcare professional, since persistent bad breath can be a sign of an underlying medical condition.
To Conclude
If your breath smells like poop, it’s likely due to poor oral hygiene, your diet, or an underlying health condition. Fortunately, you can improve your breath by addressing these issues.
If your bad breath persists, it’s important to see a dentist or doctor. They can help you identify the cause of the problem and recommend the appropriate treatment. Early diagnosis and treatment can also prevent more serious health problems from developing.
With proper care and attention, you can effectively manage and eliminate bad breath. Remember that maintaining good oral health is essential for your overall well-being, and it’s always worth the effort to keep your breath fresh and clean.