Have you noticed an unpleasant taste or odor lingering in your mouth that you can’t seem to brush or rinse away? Whether the flavor is salty, metallic, or simply rancid, you should contact your dentist for an emergency appointment as soon as possible. There are several potential causes, and though some are more urgent than others, you’ll need your provider’s help to determine what’s happening. Then, they’ll work with you to devise a personalized treatment plan based on your unique circumstances to safeguard your smile.
Continue reading to learn more about three possible reasons for the taste in your mouth and what you can do about them!
Issue #1: Burning Mouth Syndrome
As the name suggests, this condition causes a scalding or burning sensation in the mouth, often accompanied by a bitter taste. Some people experience this sporadically, while others suffer from the effects chronically over longer periods. There’s not always an identifiable cause, though it’s believed to have something to do with damage to nerves that control pain and taste. It’s statistically more common in women who are peri- or post-menopausal, but men can get it, too.
Your dentist or primary care physician can prescribe different medications to help with the symptoms. Other remedies include health supplements like B-vitamins, zinc, and iron and non-pharmacological stress management techniques like yoga and meditation.
Issue #2: Dry Mouth
Saliva is your body’s natural defense when it comes to protecting your grin. It has a nearly neutral pH balance to counteract acid damage from the foods that you eat, which would otherwise erode your enamel. Plus, it rinses away leftover bits of food and other debris that attract microbes known to contribute to tooth decay and gum disease. Without enough spit, the bacteria in your mouth can thrive, giving it a foul odor or flavor.
Dry mouth can be caused by:
- Aging.
- Prescriptions like antidepressants, diuretics, muscle relaxers, and antihistamines.
- Nerve damage.
- Mouth breathing.
- Radiation or chemotherapy.
- Other medical conditions like diabetes, lupus, and thyroid disease.
Talking to your doctor about alternate medications can sometimes help. Also, drinking more water consistently can keep your mouth moist to prevent problems.
Issue #3: Infection or Illness
When you have a sinus infection, cold, or other sickness, your body releases inflammatory proteins to attack harmful cells and reduce inflammation. These interact with the cells in your mouth, like your tastebuds, which can increase your sensitivity to bitter flavors when you’re sick.
Mucus, phlegm, or postnasal drip in your nose, mouth, and throat can also leave behind a metallic taste. Gargling with warm salt water can naturally eradicate unwanted germs and soothe the tender tissues.
As you can see, there are many possible reasons for the strange flavor you’re experiencing. Once your dentist examines your condition, they’ll work with you to find an appropriate solution!
About the Practice
At Corcoran Privitera Family Dental, you benefit from two dentists dedicated to providing people of all ages with a full array of dental services from two convenient locations. Dr. Corcoran and Dr. Privitera are experienced in working with people of all ages, so you and your whole family can be seen at the same practice. They take the time to get to know you so they can create fully individualized treatments to meet your unique needs. Then, they use state-of-the-art equipment to deliver accurate, long-lasting results. If you’re worried about your dental condition, you can request an appointment on the website or call (740) 835-4698.