If you have a constant, foul taste in your mouth that isn’t subsiding, you might be wondering what the cause could be. While this can sometimes be a normal reaction to certain pungent foods, if it’s lasting for a longer period of time, it could be indicative of something more serious! Keep reading to learn more about some of the possible causes for a bad taste in your mouth in Painesville, along with when you should see your dentist about it.
Possible Reasons for a Constant Bad Taste in Your Mouth
Many of the causes of a bad taste in the mouth are not serious; however, the symptoms can be irritating and still interfere with your diet or enjoyment of daily life! Some possible explanations for this issue include:
- Dry mouth – Saliva is your mouth’s first line of defense, and having a dry mouth means that bacteria are given an ideal environment to thrive. While there are various things that can cause your mouth to feel dry, including tobacco use of preexisting conditions, if the issue is chronic it needs to be addressed promptly.
- Poor oral hygiene – Poor oral care can lead to an increase in cavities, infections, and gum disease, all of which can cause a bitter taste in the mouth. Brushing, flossing, and using an antibacterial mouthwash can help keep foul-tasting bacteria at bay.
- Pregnancy – During the first trimester of pregnancy, one common complaint is a bitter or metallic taste in the mouth. This is usually due to fluctuating hormones in the body.
- Acid reflux – When the muscle at the top of the stomach becomes weak, it might allow acid or bile to rise up, resulting in a burning sensation in the chest or abdomen as well as a bitter taste.
- Oral thrush – This is a yeast infection that can cause white blotches to appear on the tongue, mouth, or throat, in addition to causing a bad taste.
- Certain medications – Some medications and oral supplements can also cause a bitter taste in the mouth. This includes things like certain antibiotics, cardiac drugs and vitamins containing minerals or metals like copper, iron, or zinc.
Addressing the Issue
Treating a bad taste in your mouth for good normally involves treating the underlying cause. Visiting your dentist for a consultation will allow them to identify the cause of the problem and come up with an appropriate treatment plan. There are some home remedies you can implement to ease your discomfort in the meantime, including practicing good oral care, drinking plenty of water throughout the day, and chewing sugar-free gum. You can also avoid risk factors for acid reflux, such as eating greasy or spicy foods. You should also avoid poor oral habits such as smoking and using tobacco products.
Experiencing a bitter taste in the mouth is fairly common, and it should not be an immediate reason to be concerned. Most of the time the issue is easily treatable with the help of your dentist; that said, don’t hesitate to seek care if the issue is affecting your smile!
About the Practice
Painesville Dental Group has proudly served patients and families in the Painesville, OH area for several years under the leadership of Dr. Dennis Horvath, Dr. Jerry Patriarca, Dr. Nicholas Slezak, and Dr. Stephanie Pichler. Their practice is pleased to offer a wide range of services including emergency dentistry. If you have any questions about the article ,or the bad taste in your mouth isn’t going away, don’t hesitate to reach out online or over the phone: (440) 354-2183.