Do you often experience a lingering, unpleasant taste in your mouth that doesn’t go away even after brushing and flossing?
Having a constant bad taste in your mouth can not only be bothersome but can also be a sign of an underlying oral health issue, so don’t ignore this important symptom.
What could cause a chronic bad taste in your mouth? Here are the top potential causes of this unpleasant condition.
Gum Disease
Gum disease is a common cause of a chronic bad taste in the mouth. When bacteria and = plaque build up around the gumline, it can lead to an infection of the gums.
The bacteria release toxins that cause inflammation, leading to symptoms such as bleeding gums, bad breath, and a persistent bad taste in the mouth [1]. The sooner you get treatment for gum disease, the better. If you have a bad taste in your mouth, red or inflamed gum tissue, or receding gums, it’s time to see your dentist.
Tooth Infections
Tooth abscesses occur when bacteria enter the tooth, leading to infection and inflammation. Aside from pain, a chronic bad taste in the mouth is a common symptom of a tooth abscess. Cavities, dental trauma, and poor dental hygiene can all cause dental abscesses [2]. It’s crucial to seek immediate dental care if you suspect a tooth infection, as it can lead to life threatening complications if left untreated.
Poor Dental Hygiene
Poor dental hygiene, such as not brushing or flossing regularly, can contribute to the development of oral health issues, including a chronic bad taste in your mouth [3].
When you neglect to brush and floss, bacteria accumulate in your mouth, leading to plaque and tartar buildup. This buildup can cause gum disease, cavities, and other oral infections, resulting in a persistent bad taste.
Establishing a proper oral hygiene routine, including brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist regularly, is crucial for preventing these issues.
Tobacco Use
Smoking and chewing tobacco are not only harmful to your overall health but can also be a significant contributor to chronic bad taste.
Tobacco products contain numerous toxic chemicals that can affect your oral health. Smoking can also lead to dry mouth, reduced saliva production, and an increased risk of gum disease, all of which can contribute to an unpleasant taste in the mouth [4].
Quitting tobacco products can significantly improve your oral health and reduce the chronic bad taste in your mouth.
Other Causes
There are various other factors that can cause a chronic bad taste in the mouth, including certain medications, sinus infections, dry mouth, acid reflux, oral thrush, and even certain systemic health conditions such as hepatitis B.
If you are experiencing a persistent bad taste accompanied by other symptoms, consult with your dentist or healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Have Your Dentist Evaluate Your Smile
If you notice that you have a chronic bad taste in your mouth, it’s time to get your smile evaluated by a dentist. Identifying and treating the underlying causes can help ensure your teeth and gums stay healthy and minimize the need for future dental treatments!
Sources:
1. https://www.cdc.gov/oralhealth/conditions/periodontal-disease.html#Warning
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK493149/
3. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321438
4. https://www.mouthhealthy.org/all-topics-a-z/smoking
