WHY DO I HAVE A BITTER TASTE IN MY MOUTH?
Do you ever have a bad taste in your mouth, even when you haven’t eaten anything pungent? Are you ever self-conscious that people around you can smell your bad breath? If you answered “yes” to either of these questions, then it is important not to dismiss these symptoms. In fact, they could be a result of a much more serious dental concern. An emergency dentist is sharing five common causes and how they can help!
Professionally referred to as xerostomia, dry mouth is a condition in which the mouth does not produce enough saliva. Unfortunately, this allows the bacteria in your mouth to breed, which can result in an unpleasant taste. Fortunately, chewing sugar-free gum and drinking plenty of water can help encourage your salivary glands and prevent your mouth from drying out.
Cavities, infections, and gum disease are just a few oral concerns that can lead to foul-tasting bacteria in your mouth. The good news is that dental issues like these are largely preventable with a solid oral hygiene routine, which includes brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and using mouthwash regularly. Plus, visiting your dentist biannually for a checkup and cleaning can keep your teeth and gums in tip-top shape and treat any concerns that do arise.
As the hormones in your body fluctuate, you may experience aversions to certain smells and foods. Fortunately, the metallic, bitter, or tinny taste typically goes away after the first trimester or following birth. However, if the symptoms persist, talk to your dentist to ensure that it isn’t the result of an underlying oral concern.
This condition causes patients to experience a feeling similar to eating spicy peppers (without actually doing so). One of the symptoms is a bitter or rancid taste, which contributes to this unpleasant ailment. Fortunately, patients can get relief from burning mouth syndrome by receiving a formal diagnosis and undergoing treatment with their primary care physician.
When the muscle at the top of your stomach becomes weak, the acid in your stomach can rise up and irritate the food pipe. From there, it can result in a bitter, unpleasant taste in your mouth. There are over-the-counter medications available to relieve the “burning” feeling, but speaking directly with your doctor can ensure you get the long-lasting relief you deserve.
If you experience a bitter or bad taste in your mouth, it is time to talk to your dentist. That way, they can treat the root of the issue and you can get back to enjoying minty-fresh breath!
After obtaining his undergraduate degree at Xavier University in Cincinnati, Dr. Brian C. Oyler earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree at Indiana University’s School of Dentistry. Next, he received advanced training at the world-renowned Dawson Center for Advanced Dental Education and gained Fellowship in The Academy of General Dentistry! Plus, he is an active member of multiple notable organizations, including the American Dental Association and the Indiana Dental Association. If you are seeking treatment for a chronic bad taste in your mouth, visit his website or give him a call at 812-221-1014.
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