Have you ever had that metallic taste in mouth that does not want to go away? It’s unsettling and interferes with everything from mealtime to personal mood. Additionally, if left untreated, these could have many possible explanations. So, knowing what causes the taste becomes essential, which is the first step towards a solution.
This comprehensive blog explores the potential causes and practical ways to eliminate this metallic taste.
What Are A Few Typical Reasons For A Metallic Taste?
There could be a lot of reasons as to why you all of a sudden feel a metallic taste in your mouth. Some common causes include:
Medications
Antibiotics, antihistamines, and blood pressure drugs are among the medicines that can alter your sense of taste. They give the mouth a metallic taste, thereby changing how taste buds function. Therefore, if you still experience any of these metallic tastes, then it is possible that you are under medication.
Source: Freepik
Oral Health Issues
Oral problems such as Gingivitis, infection, or bad oral hygiene may cause a metallic taste. There might be many more, but getting these treated might be the only option especially at this time for treating sudden metallic taste in mouth.
Nutritional Deficiency
Another possible cause of that absurd taste in your mouth is a deficiency in some essential nutrients, primarily zinc. Taste distortion results from a zinc deficiency, a chemical element that plays a crucial role in perception.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
It is another culprit behind sour or metallic taste as it leads stomach acid to the mouth. Managing it either through lifestyle modifications or prescribed medication will prove helpful in curing the bad taste issue.
Systemic diseases
Even diabetes, renal disease, and neurologic conditions, among others, are some systemic diseases that can be associated with the long-term persistence of an unpleasant taste in the mouth. This sign may be eliminated if these chronic conditions are well managed. Another way to improve taste and overall health is through regular check-ups.
How To Get Rid Of Metallic Taste In Mouth?
The taste of metal has to be treated by first finding its cause and then applying the correct remedies for this problem. The following steps show how to eliminate a metallic taste effectively:
Good Oral Health
Clean your teeth properly every day. Use fluoride toothpaste and antibacterial mouthwash to prevent oral health problems that may cause a metallic taste.
Source: Freepik
Stay Hydrated
Drinking sufficient water keeps the body well-hydrated and clears most harmful bacteria from the body. Moreover, it prevents dry mouth, which can aggravate taste further. One must consume eight glasses of water or more every day.
Dietary Changes
Eat more fruits and vegetables overall, with a focus on citrus fruits. Steer clear of certain meals and beverages that have been linked to a metallic taste, such as coffee and certain teas. Moreover, avoid foods that naturally contain trace amounts of metals.
Re-Evaluate Medications
If you feel your medications leave a metallic taste in your mouth, consult your doctor. He may change your dose or even the medication depending on the severity and how badly it often returns, causing trouble.
Nutritional Deficiencies
Take supplements only if your daily nutrients are lacking, and moreover, there are certain foods that you cannot have during this time. But if you plan to take some, then do not forget zinc, as it is one of the essential elements that are suitable for taste functioning.
Manage Underlying Health Conditions
However, despite trying these, the taste is still there, so it is time to see a professional and seek a medical opinion. Follow up with your doctor to ensure you are well managed and discuss any change of taste you may have with them.
Avoid Smoking & Alcohol
Another best way to avoid metallic taste is to proactively avoid alcohol and smoking. Either of these practices does extensive damage to the taste buds. Thus, it’s possible to regain typical taste by slowing down or stopping these practices.
Final Words
Lastly, this metallic taste in your mouth can be frustrating and uncomfortable. Understanding the causes and applying effective methods will help manage and alleviate the problem. Proper oral hygiene, a well-hydrated body, diet modification, and management of significant health conditions are among the means to regain your usual taste. If none of these tips work, it is necessary to seek professional help for diagnosis.
References
- Healthline. What Causes a Metallic Taste in Your Mouth?
- Oral-B. What Causes Metallic Taste in Mouth and How to Get rid of it?
