Having a bad taste in your mouth can make it difficult to consume any foods or beverages. You take a bite hoping to enjoy the juicy, sweet taste of a strawberry or a sip of your favorite coffee only for it to be marred by the awful contents that exist within your oral cavity. A local dentist is here to answer why this unfortunate problem occurs and what you can do to prevent it in the future.
It Just Doesn’t Taste the Same: Reasons for the Bitterness
There’s nothing worse than biting into a piece of food or consuming a beverage and it not tasting right. While you may chalk up bad breath to eating garlic, onions, or other pungent items, these tend to dissipate within a short amount of time. If flavors seem “off” and everything tastes bitter or “bad,” there are usually one or more reasons. Some of these may include:
- Pregnancy – Women who are pregnant tend to develop a bitter taste in their mouths during the first trimester. Because the hormones are rapidly changing, a woman’s various senses can be affected, causing certain foods to become less appealing. Once the baby is born, the taste should go away.
- Dry Mouth – If bacteria accumulates inside the mouth, it can lead to a foul odor taste, especially if there is a lag in saliva production and dry mouth occurs. This common problem can form as a result of sinus congestion that causes mouth breathing, smoking, or certain medications.
- Poor Oral Hygiene – If you’re not brushing, flossing, and rinsing as you should, a bitter taste can form. This can lead to an increased risk of cavities, gum disease, and infection.
How to Avoid That Bitter Taste
If your salivary glands must work properly, and you need to maintain better oral hygiene, you’ll need to make sure you’re brushing regularly, flossing after every meal or at least once a day before bed, and using an antibacterial mouthwash. You’ll also need to drink plenty of water to keep your mouth moist and your salivary glands working at an optimal level.
If you’re taking certain medications that are causing you to have a metallic taste, don’t hesitate to speak to your physician about a solution that will eliminate the foul odor and flavor. Also, be sure to speak to your dentist during your regular six-month checkups and cleanings to ensure you’re doing everything necessary to maintain fresher breath and enjoy the foods and drinks you consume.
Don’t let a bitter taste keep you down. Identify the potential problem and establish a game plan to overcome it. With the help of a trusted dentist, you can return to eating your favorite meals in no time.
About the Practice
At Westgate Dental Care, our team of dentists is here to deliver preventive services when the time is right for you. Safeguarding against tooth decay, cavities, and gum disease, we also help eliminate the cause behind bad breath and bitter tastes to help you take back your life. If you struggle with the inability to eat some of your favorite foods, visit our website or call us at (847) 908-3684.