It’s not uncommon to wake up in the morning with a less-than-pleasant taste or smell in your mouth until you brush your teeth to clear away collected plaque and bacteria. However, if you’ve noticed a bitter flavor on your tongue more consistently, you might start to wonder whether you’ve developed a more urgent problem.
There are several potential causes for a strange taste in your mouth, and you’ll need your dentist’s help to identify and treat the underlying issue before it progresses into an emergency. Continue reading to learn about 3 potential culprits and how to avoid them!
Cause #1: Dry Mouth
Did you know that saliva is your mouth’s first defense against dental problems? It has a nearly neutral pH balance to counter acid damage, protecting your enamel. It also rinses away leftover bits of food, debris, and bacteria to avoid common concerns, such as cavities and gum disease.
Unfortunately, that means unhealthy germs can thrive in arid conditions, such as when you develop dry mouth. This can happen if you’re taking certain medications, have a medical issue like diabetes or thyroid disease, a sleeping disorder, or other causes. Whatever the reason, drinking more water can help keep your mandible moist and prevent potential problems.
Cause #2: Poor Dental Hygiene Habits
You might also notice a rancid smell or taste in your mouth if bacteria are able to thrive due to a lack of daily dental hygiene. Every morning and night, you should gently scrub all sides of your teeth with a toothbrush and toothpaste to clear residue from the surfaces. This should be followed by flossing to eradicate plaque and germs from between your teeth and below your gumline.
This is a simple and effective way to strengthen your smile on a day-to-day basis, but you must also see your dentist every six months for a routine checkup and cleaning. They’ll examine your teeth and gums for any issues and take the time to remove even the most stubborn tartar to safeguard your smile.
Cause #3: Hormonal Changes
Women are also prone to developing dental problems, like a foul taste on their tongues, during periods of heightened hormonal activity, such as pregnancy or menopause. If you’re experiencing sudden shifts in your estrogen levels, it can impact your sense of taste and smell. You’re likely more sensitive to different scents and flavors, and might experience a metallic or sour sensation.
If you’ve noticed a change in your dental condition, like tasting an unpleasant flavor that you can’t explain, the next best step is to contact your dentist to schedule an appointment!
About the Practice
Patients at Family & Implant Dentistry of Stuart benefit from two dentists passionate about helping families in Stuart build and maintain happy, healthy smiles. Dr. Broaddus and Dr. Laffita collaborate to provide a comprehensive menu of services to meet all your needs at one convenient location. They also offer same-day emergency appointments, so you don’t have to wait for help if you experience an unexpected issue. They combine a caring approach with advanced technology to help you feel comfortable while delivering accurate treatment results intended to last. If you have a strange taste in your mouth, you can request an appointment on the website or call (772) 286-3088.