Metallic Taste on Tongue

It would be quite annoying to feel a change in taste whenever one eats something. Even sweets would taste strange in such cases. This may be because there is a metallic taste on the tongue that is masking all the other tastes. Experiencing a metallic taste in the mouth can be quite distressing as it comes in the way of enjoying food flavors and tastes.

An abnormal taste in the mouth can be of minor concern which may go away after a while. However, it may also mean that there are some underlying health disorders which may require prompt medical intervention. There are a variety of reasons for having an abnormally bad taste in the mouth, especially on the tongue.

This unpleasant condition can be noticed due a number of reasons. Observing them will help in identifying the exact cause of the same.

• Poor oral hygiene is one of the leading causes for having an unpleasant taste on the tongue. Another reason is the presence of dental problems like a tooth abscess, a condition where pus begins to accumulate in the cavity of an infected tooth.

• Individuals affected by periodontal diseases or oral infections due to the infestation of bacteria like dental caries and gingivitis may also experience this condition.

• Bitter taste on the tongue can arise due to side effects of certain drugs. Medication like antihistamines, antibiotics, chemotherapy drugs, etc., can give rise to this problem.
• People who have undergone dental treatments like tooth amalgam or tooth filling that is done using mercury or silver may notice a change in the taste for a while.

• Some individuals may also experience this problem after eating. This can be due to allergic reactions to certain foods. Over-consumption of carbonated or caffeinated drinks like coffee can leave a bitter or metallic taste on the tongue.

• This condition can arise during pregnancy due to the hormonal changes in the body. Hormonal fluctuations, taking prenatal vitamins, calcium supplements, and other medication can leave a sour taste in the mouth.

• Smoking can also be a cause for this problem.
• It can also be because of acid reflux disease (also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD), gastritis, heartburn, and jaundice, etc.

• A few other bitter taste in mouth causes are copper toxicity, lead poisoning, mercury poisoning, and an overdose of selenium.
• In serious cases, it can be a symptom of acute kidney failure, peptic ulcer, or chronic kidney diseases.

• Metallic taste can also be one of the symptoms of clupeotoxin poisoning which is a serious and life-threatening condition. The poisoning takes place on consumption of plankton-eating fish such as herring, sardines, etc., that are contaminated with the toxin. It could also result in death. One should seek medical help as soon as possible in such a case.

Fortunately, there are many remedies for this problem that will help in regaining the lost, normal taste of the tongue. Brushing twice a day will not only help to get rid of this problem, but also prevent oral infections. One can also use a tongue cleaner for scraping off any residual taste.

Rinsing the mouth with vinegar, peppermint oil, or a solution of baking soda, and water, will serve the purpose and will also destroy harmful bacteria in the mouth. Chewing clove, cardamom, or mint leaves will also help freshen the breath. Oral hygiene is a must, in order to avoid this problem. Furthermore, one should refrain from smoking.

If one wishes to keep this interference at bay, then practice proper oral hygiene and go for a routine checkup to the dentist for the timely diagnosis and prevention of oral disorders.

Disclaimer: This story is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.