What causes bad breath in elderly people?

Oct 25, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

Grandpa has bad breath and smokes frequently. What causes bad breath in elderly people?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhang Lei
Bad breath in the elderly is often caused by periodontal disease and other factors. Many older adults experience gum recession and have dental calculus covered with bacteria and dental plaque. Food debris easily accumulates between teeth, especially when oral hygiene is neglected. This trapped food decomposes and ferments, leading to bad breath. It is recommended to visit a reputable medical facility for professional teeth cleaning to control the progression of periodontal disease and remove dental calculus. At the same time, it's important to develop good tooth-brushing habits to prevent food impaction.