My BEST Dentists Journal

All Journal Entries
Share

What Is That Metallic Taste in Your Mouth?

If you’ve started to notice an unpleasant metallic taste in your mouth, you’re not alone. Many men and women experience this sensation, and it’s usually nothing that a trip to your dentist can’t take care of. A metallic taste can be a sign of a serious disease, but this is very rare and will occur alongside other symptoms.

Dental Causes of Metallic Taste

A metallic taste in the mouth can occur for a variety of reasons having to do with the teeth and gums, such as:  Tooth decay, Gum disease, Broken filling or crown, Dry mouth.

Infection is a common reason for a metallic taste. If you practice poor dental hygiene, you will most likely end up with cavities, inflamed gums, or both. Leaving these untreated can cause infection, which often creates an unpleasant taste.

Another reason for a metallic taste in the mouth is a broken filling or crown. This often occurs after a root canal, as the temporary filling used before your crown is placed is soft and can be easily chipped, broken, or dislodged. If you notice a metallic taste after your root canal, visit your dentist so that they can check on the state of your filling.

Dry mouth can be another culprit when it comes to a metallic taste. This is especially common if you’re taking medicines or vitamins that contain metals such as zinc or iron. Dry mouth can be prevented by drinking plenty of water and chewing gum to stimulate saliva production. Once your mouth is no longer dry, the metallic taste should disappear.

How to Prevent Metallic Taste in Mouth

Since the most common reason for a metallic taste in the mouth is poor oral hygiene, the best way to prevent it is to maintain a great oral health routine. Some of the things you can do to help keep your mouth healthy and free of bad tastes include: Brush twice a day and floss at least once a day, Use a mouthwash, Rinse your mouth with water after eating, especially after eating anything sugary, Avoid eating too many sweets, Avoid hard or sticky foods, Visit your dentist every 4 or 6 months.

Bacteria build up on the teeth after eating and drinking, so rinsing with water is a great way to help remove food particles and bacteria if you can’t brush your teeth right away. Rinsing with water after drinking coffee or eating berries can also help to prevent staining.

If you maintain good oral habits, you’ll have less of a chance of getting an infection which leads to a metallic taste in the mouth.

(09/26/2020)
by Dr. John Schmid, DDS

More Information: https://medium.com/@schmidjohn.p1s/what-is-that-metallic-taste-in-your-mouth-2f060fb030e5

Views: 586
Share


My BEST Dentists Journal Headlines