When you have a bad taste in your mouth, you might try your best to get rid of it. Maybe you tried to rinse with water or have been chewing gum and mints to deal with it. While they give you some relief, you should get to the root of the problem. It may not be an important issue at first, but a few reasons for it can turn into a dental emergency over time! Here are four culprits that may be causing this bitter taste in your mouth.
1.) Poor Oral Hygiene
Some people experience this unpleasant symptom when they wake up. If this is the case for you, then the reason may be your oral hygiene habits! If you tend to skip parts of cleaning your smile, then it can lead to a buildup of bacteria in your mouth. This can cause the taste, so by brushing and flossing twice a day, you can hopefully get rid of it! Don’t forget your tongue as well!
Not only that, but you also help prevent dental problems like cavities and gum disease. These may start minor, but they can turn into a serious problem if left untreated. In more severe cases, you may even experience tooth loss.
2.) Acid Reflux
This is a condition where stomach acid flows backward into the esophagus. If you have it, then some symptoms are a burning sensation in your chest and abdomen, indigestion, or a sour taste in your mouth. While experiencing acid reflux on occasion isn’t usually anything to worry about, frequent episodes can be a sign of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
3.) Dry Mouth
If you don’t produce enough saliva, then it can also be the cause of the bitter taste. You won’t be able to wash away harmful bacteria as effectively, so they can build up more easily and cause oral health issues. This condition has its own list of what can cause it, such as certain medications, smoking, alcohol, autoimmune diseases, and natural aging. By drinking lots of water, you can help keep your mouth hydrated.
4.) Certain Supplements and Medications
As was briefly mentioned above, certain medications and supplements can be the culprit. They get absorbed into your body, but they may be excreted into the saliva. If it’s persistent and intense, then talking to a professional can help you learn whether there are other things you can take instead or how you can stop it.
While you may have a bitter taste in your mouth, you should bring it up to your dentist. Letting them know can help you learn whether it’s an oral health issue you need to be worried about. That way, you get to a comfortable smile sooner.
About the Practice
At Prime Time Dentistry, you benefit from a compassionate team of dentists who look after you and your grin. Our goal is to be proactive about your oral health, but we are here for you if you find yourself in a dental emergency. By offering same-day, after-hours, and weekend visits for urgent cases, you can get the relief you need right away. If you are worried about a bitter taste in your mouth, schedule an appointment or call our office at (945) 207-7463.