For some people the saying, “it left a bad taste in my mouth,” is more than an adage. If you find yourself consistently noticing a bitter taste, this could signal a notable oral health issue. Keep reading to learn more about what could be the cause of it.
Causes of A Chronic Bitter Taste in The Mouth
When you eat something made with onions or enjoy a sour piece of candy, it is typical to have a bad taste in your mouth afterward due to the strong oils or flavors left on your tongue. In fact, this taste can sometimes even last a short time after brushing your teeth. However, if you have noticed that the bitter taste in your mouth just never seems to go away, it’s time to have a talk with your Fayetteville dentist. Here are some of the factors and medical conditions that this symptom could indicate:
- Dental Issues: If a person’s dental hygiene is poor, this can lead to cavities and infections in the gums, which can result a lingering foul flavor on the tongue.
- Dry Mouth: Also known as Xerostomia, this condition means that the mouth does not produce sufficient saliva. This allows bacteria to thrive, causing a bitter taste.
- Burning Mouth Syndrome: This is a rare and often sporadically appearing syndrome that causes a constant burning sensation in the mouth. Along with it, many people also experience a rancid taste.
- Acid Reflux: People with this condition consistently experience the symptom of stomach acid rising into the food pipe, which often brings about a foul taste in the mouth that will persist for as long as the other symptoms do.
- Oral Thrush: This is a treatable but serious yeast infection in the mouth characterized by white spots or blotches on the tongue, mouth, or throat…and you guessed it! It also causes a bad taste in the mouth.
- Stress or Anxiety: This one may come as a surprise, but when the stress response is triggered in the body, the chemicals produced by the brain can cause a person’s sense of taste to be altered. Anxiety, on the other hand, causes the mouth to dry out.
- Nerve Damage: Did you know that your taste buds listen to the nerves in your brain? This means that nerve damage in the brain can alter taste. This is often why sufferers of Alzheimer’s disease often lose their appetites as the condition worsens. Other common illnesses that affect taste are epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, brain tumors, and Bell’s palsy.
- Medication: Certain medications or even supplements can cause a bitter taste in the mouth, such as antibiotics, iron, zinc, and cardiac drugs. If you take medications, it’s always a good idea to check with your doctor regarding all of the side-effects.
- Chronic Sinus Problems: When sinus cavities are inflamed, the proteins sent out by the body can affect the taste buds on the tongue, causing a metallic or bitter taste to linger in the mouth.
If you struggle with a chronic bitter taste in your mouth, it’s important to talk to your dentist about it as soon as possible, as it could signify an underlying issue. Let them help you figure out the best option to resolve it so you can enjoy flavor again!
About the Author
Dr. Angela C. Ruff heads up the team of experts at Ascot Aesthetic Implants and Dentistry. Her patients are her priority and helping people who struggle with chronic oral issues is something she is passionate about. She also places high value on knowledge and continues to advance her skills with continuing education. Do you suffer from a chronic bitter taste in your mouth? Make an appointment to visit us online, or call us at (910) 630-6199.