It’s normal for certain foods and beverages, such as black coffee, to leave a bitter taste in your mouth. But what if you’re constantly experiencing such a taste regardless of what you eat or drink? There can be multiple explanations for a bitter taste, and some are more serious than others. Your emergency dentist is here to provide a brief look at 4 reasons why you may be experiencing a chronic bitter taste.
1. Dry Mouth
If your body doesn’t produce enough saliva, you may end up with a dry mouth. This can affect your taste buds, thus leading to a persistent bitter taste.
When left alone, dry mouth can have serious consequences for your oral health. Normally, saliva helps protect your teeth and gums from harmful oral bacteria. But if you have a dry mouth, it will be easier for such bacteria to thrive, thus increasing your risk for tooth decay and gum disease.
2. Acid Reflux
Acid reflux is a condition where stomach acid travels up your esophagus. If the acid reaches your mouth, you are likely to notice a bitter taste.
Other symptoms of acid reflux include heartburn, pain in the upper belly or chest, a chronic dry cough, and trouble swallowing. Additionally, the acid in your mouth could potentially damage your teeth by wearing away your enamel.
3. Burning Mouth Syndrome
Burning mouth syndrome refers to a constant or recurring burning sensation inside the mouth. It’s often accompanied by a bitter taste as well as other symptoms such as dry mouth.
It’s believed that burning mouth syndrome is the result of certain nerves being damaged. It can be linked to hormonal changes during menopause, but it can also be a consequence of an infection.
4. Pine Nut Syndrome
When certain people eat pine nuts, it can result in a bitter or metallic taste that can potentially last for up to two weeks. The symptoms can take about one to three days to appear, which is why it might seem like the taste came out of nowhere.
It’s not completely clear why some individuals have this reaction to pine nuts. Fortunately, it is not a serious condition; there are no adverse health effects to worry about, and the taste will eventually go away on its own.
These are just a few possible explanations for why you might be experiencing a bitter taste. To figure out the true cause of the issue, you should schedule a consultation with your dentist as soon as possible. That way, if there’s a more serious underlying problem, you can start the process of having it properly diagnosed and treated!
About the Author
Dr. Candida Castillo went to Boston University for her dental education, and she holds membership with various organizations such as the Rhode Island Dental Association. As a holistic dentist, she understands the relationship between oral health and overall health, and she offers a wide range of natural treatment options. If you’re concerned about a bitter taste, you can schedule a consultation with Dr. Castillo at Bio Dental in North Providence by visiting her website or calling (401) 232-7777.