Bad taste in the mouth

An altered or unpleasant taste in the mouth is a common symptom that can be caused by a variety of factors - from temporary dry mouth to infections in the oral cavity. Often the taste is metallic, bitter or sour and can affect both appetite and well-being.

"A change in taste in the mouth is often the body's way of signaling that something is wrong - it can be an early sign of infection, dry mouth or other conditions that should be investigated."
- Annette, dental hygienist at Dentme

Common causes of bad taste in the mouth

Inadequate oral hygiene

If bacteria, food debris and plaque are not properly removed, it can lead togingivitis (gingivitis) and an unpleasant taste. Plaque on the tongue is also a common cause.

Dry mouth (xerostomia)

Saliva protects the oral mucosa and helps to clear away bacteria. If saliva production decreases, the taste in the mouth may change. Common causes are:

- Medicines (e.g. blood pressure medicines, antidepressants)

- Diseases such as Sjögren's syndrome or diabetes

- Respiratory distress or mouth breathing

- Smoking

Fungus in the mouth (oral candidiasis)

Candida overgrowth can cause a white coating on the tongue and a bitter or metallic taste, especially in people with compromised immune systems or dry mouth.

Infections of the teeth and gums

CariesTooth decay, inflamed wisdom teeth or other infections can give rise to pus formation - which often tastes bad.

Other causes

- Reflux and heartburn

- Pregnancy or hormonal changes

- Vitamin and mineral deficiencies (e.g. zinc, B12)

- Side effects of medicines, especially antibiotics and iron supplements

When should you see a dentist?

Contact a dentist if you:

- Harbad taste in the mouth lasting for more than a week

- Have pain, swelling or visible sores in your mouth

- Have whitedeposits on the tongue or the mucous membranes

- Notice the impact on appetite or general condition

At Dentme, you get help quickly, and both assessment and treatment are included in Membership.

How to get rid of bad taste in your mouth

Improving oral hygiene

- Brush teeth and tongue twice daily with fluoride toothpaste

- Use dental floss or interdental brushes

- Clean your tongue with a tongue scraper

- Rinse your mouth with antibacterial mouthwash if necessary

Tackling dry mouth

- Drink water regularly

- Chewing sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva

- Avoid tobacco, alcohol and caffeine

- Consult your dentist about saliva-stimulating products

Treat the root cause

- Fungal infection: Prescription medicines from dentists

- Caries or gingivitis: professional treatment

- Heartburn: Contacting a doctor for medication

Frequently asked questions about bad taste in the mouth

What can bad taste be due to?
The most common causes are bacteria in the mouth, dry mouth, fungus or infection. Medication and stomach problems can also play a role.

Is it dangerous to have a bad taste in your mouth?
Usually not, but it can be a sign of something that needs to be treated - especially if the taste doesn't go away.

How long do the symptoms last?
It depends on the cause. After treatment, many people notice improvement within a few days.

Can tongue scraping help?
Yes, it does. Many people who have plaque on their tongue find that the taste improves when they start cleaning their tongue regularly.

Can medicines cause bad taste?
Yes, they do. Some antibiotics, blood pressure medicines and iron supplements affect the taste. Talk to your doctor if you suspect this.

Should I go to the doctor or dentist?
Start with a dentist - especially if you have symptoms from teeth or gums. If reflux or systemic disease is suspected, a referral can be made.

What does the dentist do during the visit?
Examination of teeth, gums and mucous membranes. In some cases supplemented by X-ray or saliva analysis.

Sources used by Dentme:

1177 Vårdguiden - Bad taste in the mouthhttps://www.1177.se/behandling--hjalpmedel/behandlingar/mundroger-och-muntorrhet/ 

NHS - Taste changes (dysgeusia)https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/loss-of-taste/

National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research - Dry Mouthhttps://www.nidcr.nih.gov/health-info/dry-mouth

1177 Vårdguiden - Bad breath: https://www.1177.se/sjukdomar--besvar/mun-och-tander/mun-lappar-och-tunga/dalig-andedrakt/

Healthcare provider Skåne - Dry mouth: https://vardgivare.skane.se/vardriktlinjer/oron-nasa-hals/ako/muntorrhet/