Do you have a constant, bad, bitter taste in your mouth that isn’t subsiding? This can be a normal reaction to some pungent foods, but when it’s lasting for a long period of time, it can point to something more serious. Read on to learn about some of the causes of bitter tastes and why this is something you should mention to your dentist.
Dry Mouth
This occurs when the mouth isn’t producing enough saliva. Since saliva helps to reduce bacteria in the mouth, when there isn’t enough, more bacteria will survive and can cause an unpleasant taste. This condition can be caused by some medications, tobacco use, and certain disorders. If you notice that you have a persistently dry mouth, this should be addressed with your dentist. Dry mouth can lead to oral health issues when it isn’t addressed.
Pregnancy
During the first trimester of pregnancy, a common complaint is a bitter or metallic taste in the mouth. This is because the fluctuating hormones in the body can affect the senses making certain foods or smells seem unpleasant.
Poor Oral Hygiene
If you aren’t keeping up a good dental hygiene routine, you can experience a bitter taste in the mouth. You may also have an increase in cavities, infections, or gum disease. Regular brushing, flossing, and visits with your dentist can help to reduce this. You could also try using an antibacterial mouthwash between brushings.
Acid Reflux
When the muscle and sphincter at the top of the stomach become weak and allow acid or bile to rise, you could experience a poor taste in the mouth as well as a burning sensation in the chest or abdomen.
Oral Thrush
A yeast infection in the mouth can cause white blotches to appear on the tongue, mouth, or throat, as well as a bitter taste. This will be resolved when the infection is treated.
Burning Mouth Syndrome
Just as it sounds, this condition causes a burning sensation in the mouth. Those afflicted describe it as similar to eating spicy peppers. Some people also experience a bitter or rancid taste in the mouth. For some, this appears sporadically but for others, it can be chronic and last for long periods.
Menopause
Women who are going through menopause may experience a bitter taste in the mouth as a result of low levels of estrogen in the body.
Nerve Damage
Like all of your other senses, the taste buds are directly connected to the nerves of the brain. When these nerves become damaged as a result of conditions like epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, tumors, dementia, Bell’s palsy, or head trauma, you can experience changes in the way you taste.
Medications
Some medications and supplements can cause a bitter taste in the mouth. This often includes cardiac drugs, lithium drugs, some antibiotics, and vitamins that contain minerals or metals like copper, iron, or zinc.
If you have a bitter taste in your mouth that isn’t going away, mention it to your dentist. Even though this isn’t necessarily harmful on its own, it could be indicating something more serious going on. By addressing this issue, you are likely to get some relief!
About the Author
Dr. Sean Hrinda is an experienced dentist who has been working in the field for more than two decades. He earned his dental doctorate from Tufts University and is a member of numerous prestigious dental organizations, including the American Dental Association Massachusetts Dental Association, and the Academy of General Dentistry. If you have a bitter taste in your mouth, he would be happy to take a look. For more information or to schedule an appointment at his office in Greenfield, visit his website or call (413) 772-0842.