While most of the time you don’t notice a taste in your mouth unless you have recently eaten, drank, or brushed your teeth, occasionally you may taste something bitter unexpectedly. Here’s why this could be happening, and why it may be time to visit the emergency dentist.
What’s Behind the Bitterness?
While it’s not uncommon to have flavors stick around in your mouth if you eat or drink something particularly strong, when you experience a taste that won’t go away even after brushing and flossing, it could be a sign that there’s something wrong. A few reasons this could happen include:
- Pregnancy
- Dry Mouth
- Certain Medications
- Oral Cancer
- Tooth Infection
- Gum Disease
- Poor oral hygiene
- Burning mouth syndrome
- Smoking
- Oral thrush
Stopping the Taste
While certain causes of bitterness will eventually go away with time such as with pregnancy-related changes, many of these issues require treatment from your dentist. If you are experiencing differences related to medication, speak to your prescribing doctor. There may be an alternative treatement or solution to help. If you still cannot find relief, be sure to stay hydrated and talk to your dentist about adding a prescription mouthwash to your oral hygiene regimen.
If you are not experiencing any changes in your health, visit your dentist as soon as possible to rule out any potential dangers that could be putting your teeth and gums at risk. Frequently, oral health conditions like gum disease, cavities, and tooth infections can be treated and the taste in your mouth will clear up when they’re resolved.
Remember, having a bad or bitter flavor in your mouth that doesn’t clear up with brushing and flossing is not normal, so if this is happening, schedule an appointment with your dentist. With proper treatment, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying your favorite foods again and living life without the bitter aftertaste!
About Our Practice
At Wolfe Dental Cedar Mill, we know that emergencies don’t always happen when it’s convenient for you. That’s why we offer same-day appointments at the hands of a compassionate and skilled team of dentists and dental professionals. If you’re experiencing a weird or bitter taste in your mouth that won’t go away with brushing alone, don’t risk your teeth and gums. Call us at 503-751-2735 to schedule an urgent appointment in Cedar Mill, or at 503-844-6550 in Hillsboro, or you can book online on our website.