Do you sometimes experience a strange, bitter taste in your mouth that doesn’t seem to be related to anything you ate? This could be cause for concern, particularly if it lasts throughout the day and doesn’t go away even after brushing your teeth. In many cases, it could even point to a serious oral health issue. Your emergency dentist is here to explain 5 common reasons for a persistent bitter taste.
1. Problems with Your Oral Health
Sometimes a bitter taste is a side effect of tooth decay, gum disease, or an oral infection. The harmful bacteria that can cause these conditions often create bad-tasting byproducts. If you talk to your dentist, they’ll be able to determine the nature of your oral health issue as well as the best way to treat it. Not only will this help put a stop to the bitter taste, but it could also be vital for preventing further harm to your smile.
2. Acid Reflux
Acid reflux (also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD) occurs when some of the acids in your stomach travel up your esophagus. If said acids reach your mouth, they can cause an unpleasant taste. Ignoring acid reflux for too long can have serious consequences for your oral health, such as enamel erosion. There are medications that can help you manage acid reflux; eating smaller meals and staying away from acidic foods could also help.
3. Burning Mouth Syndrome
Is the bitter taste in your mouth accompanied by a feeling that’s similar to what you might experience after eating something spicy? It could be that you’re suffering from burning mouth syndrome. This condition often leads to significant discomfort that can make it more difficult to eat or fall asleep. You should speak to your primary care physician as soon as possible to see what they recommend for managing burning mouth syndrome.
4. Stress or Anxiety
Your body tends to respond to stress in a variety of ways. In some cases, this can lead to a dry mouth. The lack of saliva can allow bacteria to build up on your tongue, thus causing a bitter taste. Take whatever steps are necessary to keep stress and anxiety under control, and seek appropriate treatment if your mouth is dry.
5. Pregnancy
Someone who is pregnant might experience a bitter taste during the first trimester. This is a side effect of the hormone levels in the body changing. While the taste can certainly be unpleasant, it will typically go away on its own eventually.
If you’re not sure what’s causing the bitter taste in your mouth, make an appointment with your dentist; they can help you figure out what’s going on and what kind of treatment you might need.
About the Author
Dr. Amanda Cobb studied dentistry at Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, and she graduated in the top 10 of her class. She is currently helping patients in Big Pine Key take better care of their smiles, and she is always happy to help get to the bottom of unusual symptoms such as a bitter taste. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Cobb at Cosmetic & Restorative Dentistry of the Keys, visit her website or call (305) 680-1553.