Have you noticed a bad taste in your mouth or chronically bad breath? If so, it could point to a more serious underlying issue. There are several potential reasons for the bitter flavor on your tongue, and some are more urgent than others. You should contact your dentist sooner rather than later so they can determine the reason and treat any concerns they find before they have a chance to progress.
If you have an unpleasant taste that you can’t get rid of, keep reading to learn three possible causes.
Issue #1: Dry Mouth
Did you know that your saliva protects your teeth? Not only does it rinse away leftover food particles, but it also neutralizes acid from foods you eat and eradicates bacteria to help prevent dental problems. If you’re not producing enough, you could develop a condition called xerostomia, more commonly known as dry mouth.
This can be due to:
- Prescription medications like antidepressants, diuretics, and antihistamines.
- Health concerns like diabetes, lupus, and thyroid issues.
- Chemo or radiation therapy.
- Frequent or chronic mouth breathing.
- Nerve damage.
If you’re suffering from a persistently dry mouth, you may want to contact your primary healthcare provider. They can work with you to change medications or provide treatments for other medical needs.
Issue #2: Poor Dental Hygiene
Regularly cleaning your teeth is essential to keep them looking and smelling fresh. If you don’t have a consistent at-home oral care regimen, the overgrowth of bacteria in your mouth can leave a bitter flavor. Brushing and flossing twice daily regularly removes plaque and tartar buildup that contribute to tooth decay and gum disease to keep your grin looking, feeling, and smelling fresh.
Also, it’s a good idea to visit your dentist every 6 months for a checkup. They have the experience and technology to identify and address any potential problems before they have a chance to progress.
Issue #3: Oral Thrush
When an excessive growth of Candida yeast infects your mouth, then you can develop an infection called oral thrush. Thankfully, this condition isn’t contagious and can typically be handled effectively with an antifungal medication.
If the following symptoms accompany the yucky taste in your mouth, then this could be the culprit:
- White patches on your throat, roof of your mouth, inner cheek, or tongue.
- Cotton-like sensation in the mouth.
- Redness or tenderness.
- Discomfort when eating and swallowing.
- Cracking or discoloration at the corners of your lips.
If you’re still unsure about what’s causing your problem, the best way to find out is to schedule an appointment with your dentist or doctor!
About the Author
Dr. Thomas Gromling has nearly 40 years of experience helping people of all ages build happy, healthy smiles. He earned his dental doctorate at the Medical College of Virginia at Virginia Commonwealth University and regularly participated in continuing education courses. He provides a full array of services conveniently under one roof to people of all ages. Whether you need basic preventative services or have developed an issue that needs immediate attention, you can request an appointment on the website or call (540) 869-4377.