One of the reasons why dentists are so important is that it can be really hard for the average person to tell exactly what it is that’s happening with your smile. Things like discoloration can mean lots of different things, and picking out the exact cause takes years of expertise.
Having a bitter taste in your mouth, for example, is something you should probably talk to a dentist about dealing with. Until you can meet them in person, here are a few possibilities you may want to consider.
What Kind of Bad Taste is a Problem?
First of all, it’s worth finding out whether the bad taste in your mouth is just a passing thing, or whether it’s indicative of a deeper issue. Food tastes (even unpleasant ones) aren’t necessarily a problem— you need to be more concerned about foul, metallic, or overly bitter tastes. The exception is a salty taste, which can also be a problem in some cases.
You also shouldn’t necessarily be concerned when the problems first start. A bad taste worthing talking to someone about should last all day, and be resistant to brushing.
What Could Cause a Bad Taste in Your Mouth?
There are a few things that can cause a perpetually bad taste in your mouth, some more serious than others.
Dry mouth is probably the most common. If you’ve ever noticed that your mouth has a funny taste in the morning, it’s because of that dry mouth. Experiencing that kind of thing throughout the day means that something about your lifestyle is inhibiting the production of saliva.
It may be the case that you’re dehydrated. There are also some medications, like antidepressants, that can cause chronic dry mouth. You should check with your dentist about any new medicine you’re taking.
More seriously, a foul taste in the mouth could be a sign of an oral infection. You may be suffering from serious gum disease, or you could have an infection attacking your tooth. If the taste in your mouth is associated with any kind of inflammation or discomfort, you should talk to your dentist immediately.
About the Practice
Dr. Sean Brown is a friendly and knowledgeable dentist with a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Buffalo. He enjoys helping patients protect their oral health and feel confident in their smiles through advanced treatments like Invisalign. If you’re ready to improve your quality of life, you’re in good hands. Call (215) 348-2224 to schedule an Invisalign consultation at Sean Brown DDS or visit our website to request an appointment online.