It’s normal to have a bad taste in your mouth every so often. There’ll be times when you eat food that doesn’t agree with your palate. Maybe you occasionally get a drink with a bitter aftertaste. However, there might be a severe problem when the bitterness is constant and won’t disappear. In that case, it could point to a significant oral health issue.
For those dealing with the more persistent type, here’s a summary of bad mouth taste, its potential urgency, and why to see a dentist for it.
What Qualifies as a “Bad Taste”?
Medically-speaking, a long-standing altered taste in your mouth is called dysgeusia. It’s normally described as unpleasant, bitter, metallic, or rancid, and can last until the underlying factor is treated.
The sensation is also known to be distracting. It can even ruin your ability to taste other foods and drinks.
Why is It Potentially Serious?
Though not always, a persistent bad taste in the mouth can stem from oral health complications. Consider the two below.
Dry Mouth
A dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, occurs when the mouth doesn’t produce enough saliva. Because saliva helps reduce the bacteria in your mouth, having less of it means more foul-tasting bacteria can survive. As such, it can cause constant bad taste.
Unfortunately, the bacterial growth from your dry mouth also increases your risk of cavities and gum disease.
Dental Issues
Poor dental hygiene can also cause a bitter taste. This is because leftover food particles, plaque, and bacteria can mix to create the sensation.
Insufficient dental care also leads to cavities, tooth infections, gingivitis, and gum disease.
See Your Dentist for Treatment
You’re better off seeing your dentist for your taste issue. In most situations, it’s treatable.
For instance, if the cause is dry mouth, a dentist could prescribe a special mouthwash that stimulates saliva production. They could also perform a root canal and give you a dental crown for cavities or tooth infections. Even gum disease could be managed with the right antibiotics and surgery.
As you can see, a bad taste in your mouth really can be dangerous. Talk to your local dentist the next time you’re dealing with one that just won’t leave.
About the Practice
Hanover Road Dental Health is based in Lebanon, NH. Led by a great trio of dentists, the practice has always been about putting patients first. Their team doesn’t pass judgment and ensures treatment conserves natural teeth and gums. As for services, they provide preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry. They also offer emergency dental procedures! For more information or to book an appointment, reach them at their website or call (603)-643-4362.