Why Do I Have a Bitter Taste In My Mouth?

If you’re wondering what is causing a bitter taste in your mouth, it’s likely you won’t be attributing it to something you recently ate or drank. Certain foods and beverages are known to cause this kind of taste but when the issue arises out of nowhere and doesn’t quickly dissipate, there’s probably a bigger, underlying problem. A dentist shares what can cause a bitter or metallic taste to form and what you can do about it.

Bitterness Inside the Mouth: What Causes It?

Ginger, coffee, arugula, and even Brussels sprouts all taste bitter when consumed. However, the aftertaste usually doesn’t stick around for too long and instead dissipates as you eat other foods.

When a bitter taste remains day after day, there is a good possibility that there is something wrong with your oral or overall health. Although smoking is a common contributor to having a bad taste in your mouth, other lesser-known issues such as poor oral hygiene, acid reflux, hepatitis, or even complications of diabetes can be the culprits.

You can also attribute sinus infections, dry mouth, cancer, and pregnancy as potential reasons you might taste bitterness.

How Can You Eliminate the Bitter Taste?

When faced with this type of oral health issue, it is best if you call your dentist to inquire how you should move forward. The most common way to eliminate this issue is to practice good oral hygiene. This includes regular brushing, flossing, and rinsing as well as seeing your dentist every six months for a checkup and cleaning.

You should also:

• Drink lots of water, not soda, coffee, or tea. Water helps to minimize the potential for dry mouth by keeping the mouth moist and the saliva glands working.
• Pop a piece of sugar-free gum into your mouth if you notice that your saliva production is lacking.
• Give up unhealthy habits like smoking, using tobacco, and drinking excessive amounts of alcohol.
• Combine baking soda and water to perform a thorough rinse.
• Eat smaller meals and avoid spicy, fatty foods to avoid acid reflux and weight gain.

Don’t continue to walk around looking as if something smells bad. Try one of these home-based remedies to curb the taste and don’t be afraid to talk to a professional if you need further help.

About the Author
Dr. Warren Hoffman is a dentist in North Sarasota who received his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree in Baltimore, Maryland. He then went on to complete an externship during his senior year, providing dental services to stationed members of the United States Coast Guard in Honolulu, Hawaii. At Parkway Ridge Dental, he and his team can deliver effective tips and solutions should you be faced with an unsettling taste in your mouth. Contact us at (941) 358-8830 to learn how we can help.