Why do I have a weird taste in my mouth? 8 possible causes

Occasionally, experiencing a bad taste in your mouth is entirely normal. However, if you’ve had a strange taste in your mouth for days, it could be a sign of an underlying dental or medical problem. While the most common causes may not be serious, it’s best to discuss treatment with your dentist to protect your overall well-being.

What’s causing the weird taste in my mouth?

1. Gum disease

If you’re experiencing a strange metallic taste in your mouth, chances are it’s caused by gum disease, such as gingivitis or periodontitis. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly half of adults ages 30 and older suffer from some form of gum disease¹ and bad breath or a weird taste in your mouth is a common symptom.²

What can you do?

Make an appointment to see your dentist. Through an examination, your dentist will be able to determine whether the bad taste in your mouth is a sign of gum disease and provide a treatment plan.

Since gum diseases can be caused by poor oral hygiene, it’s also important to take good care of your teeth at home.

The American Dental Association recommends that all adults do the following:³

• Brush teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste

• Clean between teeth daily

• Eat a healthy diet that limits sugary beverages and snacks

• See a dentist regularly for prevention and treatment of oral disease

2. Over the counter or prescription medications

Studies have shown that over 350 medications in all major drug categories have led to taste-related complaints, often leaving a metallic or bitter taste in the mouth.⁴ Vitamins, supplements,⁵ and cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy,⁶ can all contribute to a weird taste your mouth as well.

What can you do?

Have a conversation with your doctor to find out if any medications you’re currently taking might be causing the bitter taste in your mouth and discuss alternatives they may alleviate the issue.

3. Dry mouth

Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, occurs when saliva flow is reduced. Along with leaving a weird taste in your mouth, it can cause difficulties in tasting, chewing, swallowing, and even speaking.⁷ It’s a relatively common condition that can be caused by a variety of factors, including medications, aging, menopause, and diabetes.

What can you do?

If you suspect you’re suffering from dry mouth, make an appointment with your dentist. They’ll be able to make a diagnosis, relieve discomfort, and treat the problem to prevent any complications.

4. Burning mouth syndrome

Along with the bad taste in your mouth, does it also feel as though your mouth has been burned with hot coffee? You might be suffering from burning mouth syndrome. This condition can affect the roof of your mouth, tongue, gums, throat, and the inside of your cheeks.⁸ It’s often accompanied by a bitter or metallic taste.

What can you do?

If you’re experiencing a burning sensation in the mouth along with the strange taste, make an appointment with your dentist who can confirm the diagnosis and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

5. Oral thrush

Oral thrush is an oral fungal infection that can leave a metallic taste in the mouth. It often causes white spots to appear on the tongue, mouth, or throat. Oral thrush is common among denture wearers and people with weaken immune systems.⁹

What can you do?

Make an appointment with your dentist if you suspect you might have oral thrush. In the meantime, practice good at-home oral hygiene and clean your dentures regularly.

6. Respiratory infections

Certain illnesses or infections can cause a weird taste in your mouth. Tonsillitis, sinus infections, ear infections, and the common cold can all leave your mouth tasting bitter or metallic.¹⁰

What can you do?

If the strange taste in your mouth is a symptom of a cold or other minor infection, it’ll likely go away once the infection is properly treated. Visit your doctor if symptoms persist. In the meantime, drink plenty of fluids and get some rest.

7. Pregnancy

Hormones present during pregnancy can cause dysgeusia, which is a change in your sense of taste.¹¹ They can cause you to lose a taste for foods you used to love or enjoy foods you’ve always disliked. Pregnancy hormones can also cause a metallic or sour taste in your mouth even when you’re not eating.

What can you do?

Be patient. Though dysgeusia can last throughout the whole nine-month pregnancy, it’s most common during the first trimester. It may be annoying, but it’s no cause for concern. Practice good oral hygiene and eat the foods you can.

8. Serious illnesses

If you aren’t experiencing any other symptoms, the metallic taste in your mouth likely isn’t a sign of serious illness. However, in some cases, a strange metallic taste in the mouth could be a symptom of diabetes, dementia, liver disease, kidney disease, or even certain cancers.¹²

What can you do?

If you’re experiencing other serious symptoms along with a metallic taste in your mouth, see a doctor. Be sure to tell them about all of the symptoms you’re experiencing, even if they seem unrelated.

How can I fix the strange taste in my mouth?

The quickest way to get to the root of the problem is by making an appointment with a dentist. If you don’t have dental insurance, consider purchasing individual dental insurance before scheduling your checkup to help save money. Most checkups and cleanings are 100% covered by individual dental insurance, while basic procedures are often covered up to 70%.¹³

If you’re experiencing other serious symptoms in addition to the weird taste in your mouth or if you suspect your medications might be causing it, consult your doctor.

The following can help you deal with the bad taste in your mouth in the meantime:

• Brush your teeth (and tongue) at least twice a day

• Floss every day

• Chew sugar-free gum

• Don’t skip breakfast

• Stop smoking

• Drink plenty of water

No matter the cause of the weird taste in your mouth, rest assured that many causes are common and won’t last for an extended amount of time. Practicing good oral hygiene and visiting your dentist will help you fix the problem so you can keep your mouth tasting clean and fresh.