What’s Causing That Metallic Taste in My Mouth?
Your Happy Valley Dentists know that if you’ve ever experienced a metallic taste in your mouth, it can be a strange and unpleasant sensation.
It’s not uncommon to occasionally have a metallic taste in your mouth. But if it persists, it could be a sign of a dental issue or other underlying health problem. Let’s explore the causes of that metallic taste — and why it’s important to see your dentist in Happy Valley if you can’t seem to shake it.
Poor Oral Hygiene
One of the most common causes of a metallic taste in your mouth is poor oral hygiene. If you’re not brushing and flossing regularly, food particles can get stuck in your teeth and gums, leading to bacterial growth and inflammation. The buildup of bacteria can cause a metallic taste, as well as bad breath, tooth decay, and gum disease. If you’re experiencing a metallic taste and haven’t been keeping up with your dental hygiene, it’s time to schedule a visit to your Happy Valley dentist.
It happens. We’ll get you back on track.
Gum Disease
The inflammation and infection of the gums, known as gum disease or periodontitis, can become a significant dental concern. Left unmanaged, gum disease can contribute to tooth loss or other health-related concerns. A metallic taste in your mouth could indicate the early stages of periodontitis. Schedule an appointment with your Happy Valley, Oregon dentist to get checked.
Pregnancy
A metallic taste in the mouth is pretty common in the first trimester. It’s thought to be caused by hormonal changes that can affect taste perception. In addition, the increased blood flow and metabolism during pregnancy can lead to an increase in saliva production, which can also contribute to a metallic taste.
While it’s generally harmless and resolves on its own after the first trimester, it can be uncomfortable and affect your ability to eat and drink normally. If you’re pregnant and experiencing a metallic taste in your mouth, talk to your obstetrician or Happy Valley dentist to see what you can do. Dental care is an essential part of prenatal care.
Health Issues
In addition to dental issues, other health problems can cause a metallic taste in your mouth. For example, if you have acid reflux, stomach acid can cause a metallic taste. Similarly, if you have a respiratory infection or cold, the mucus that accumulates in your mouth and throat can do the same.
Medications
Medications are a common cause of a metallic taste in the mouth. Certain medications, such as antibiotics, blood pressure drugs, and osteoporosis medications, can cause changes in taste perception that lead to a metallic or bitter taste. Talk to your doctor if any side effects bother you, but don’t stop taking prescribed medication without that conversation. Additionally, some commercial mouthwashes and oral-care products can cause this phenomenon – please let us know of all products you use!
Additionally, some commercial mouthwashes and oral-care products can cause this phenomenon – please let us know of all products you use!
Metal Fillings
When you taste metal in your mouth, it would be natural to assume that your metal fillings are the culprit. This can happen, but other causes are more common.
While modern fillings are designed to be durable and long-lasting, they can sometimes cause a metallic taste in the mouth. This can occur when the filling material, which may contain metals like silver or mercury, interacts with saliva or other substances in the mouth.
In some cases, the metallic taste may be a sign that the filling is beginning to fail or that there is decay or infection under the filling. If you’re experiencing a metallic taste after getting a filling, it’s important to see your dentist. Happy Valley dentists at Clackamas Smiles can help you determine the cause and ensure that your filling is still functioning properly. We’ll also check your fillings at your regular appointments.
Family Dentist Happy Valley
If you’re experiencing a metallic taste in your mouth, don’t ignore it. Contact our Happy Valley dental office today to schedule an appointment. The good news is that it’s usually something that can be fixed.
We’ll help you get to the root of the problem and provide the care you need to get back to feeling your best. With our state-of-the-art dental technology and compassionate approach to care, you can trust us to provide the highest level of dental care to meet your needs.