What Causes Severe Halitosis in Elderly Individuals?

Jul 14, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

My grandfather has recently developed severe halitosis, and I’m very concerned that it might be caused by an underlying medical condition. What are the possible causes of pronounced halitosis in elderly individuals?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhang Lei
Severe halitosis in elderly individuals may result from poor oral hygiene or oral diseases such as dental caries, residual tooth roots, or periodontitis. It may also stem from gastrointestinal disorders—for instance, gastric ulcers or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Given the multiple potential causes of halitosis in older adults, patients are advised to promptly consult both a dentist and a gastroenterologist for comprehensive evaluation.