What Causes Bad Breath in the Elderly?
Disease description:
My grandmother lives with me. Today, I brought her some fruit to eat and noticed she had bad breath. I’d like to ask—what causes bad breath in elderly people?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhang Lei
In elderly individuals, halitosis (bad breath) is often initially caused by poor oral hygiene. When food debris remains in the mouth for prolonged periods and teeth are not brushed regularly, halitosis may develop. Additionally, dental conditions such as dental caries, periodontal abscesses, or periodontitis can also lead to bad breath. In daily life, maintaining good oral hygiene is essential—opt for light, bland foods and rinse the mouth thoroughly after meals to prevent worsening of halitosis.
