The cause of metallic taste in the mouth

A metallic taste in your mouth is indicative of a taste problem. This sensation in your mouth is identical to when you suddenly taste metal despite not eating anything metallic. It can happen for a variety of reasons. 

Causes for metallic taste in mouth

Normal Causes

1) Pregnancy

During pregnancy, hormonal changes can induce a wide range of taste alterations, including a metallic taste in the tongue. While the exact cause of these diseases is unknown, variations in hormone levels, particularly estrogen, are thought to affect the sense of taste.

2) Dry Mouth

Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, can result in a metallic taste in the mouth due to decreased saliva production. Saliva helps wash away food particles and pathogens; so, when there is less saliva, these particles may remain in the mouth, leaving a metallic flavor sensation. 

3) Vitamins

Specific vitamins, particularly those containing minerals like iron or zinc, can sometimes cause a metallic taste on the tongue as a side effect. These are likely to contain higher levels of these vitamins. When these minerals are consumed in excess, they can accumulate in the saliva and alter taste perception, resulting in a metallic taste impression. 

Abnormal Causes:

1) Gingivitis

Gingivitis, or gum inflammation, can occasionally cause a metallic taste in the mouth. When the gums become inflamed from gingivitis, they may bleed profusely, letting small amounts of blood into the mouth. This blood can mix with saliva, leaving a metallic tasting sensation.

2) Indigestion

Indigestion, or difficulty digesting food, can occasionally cause a metallic taste in your tongue. When stomach acid backs up into the esophagus, it can leave a metallic taste in your mouth. 

3) Sinus Infection

A sinus infection, in which the sinuses become inflamed and swollen, can occasionally induce a metallic taste in the mouth. When the sinuses become congested, it can affect the sense of smell, which is intimately linked to taste. As a result, the brain may detect some tastes differently, producing a metallic tasting perception. 

4) CNS disorders

Central nervous system (CNS) diseases, such as those affecting the brain and spinal cord, can sometimes cause a metallic taste in the mouth. These diseases may interfere with your brain's ability to perceive flavor signals. 

5) Diabetes

Diabetes can induce a metallic taste in the mouth because of high glucose levels in the saliva. This additional sugar may create a metallic or sweet flavor. Diabetes can also increase the likelihood of oral health issues like gum disease and bacterial infections, which can affect taste. 

6) Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy can make your tongue taste metallic, harming your taste buds and saliva cells. It may alter the taste of meals and give them a metallic appearance. 

Additional Causes

• Kidney Failure
• Allergies
• Chemical exposure
• Oral candidiasis
• Mercury poisoning
• Lithium compounds
• Dementia
• Pine nut syndrome
• Cold
• Medications and supplements 
• Poor Hygiene 

Conclusion:

Recognizing the reasons for a metallic taste in your tongue is critical to maintaining overall health and wellness. Being aware of potential triggers, whether they are caused by medications, medical issues, or lifestyle factors, can help people identify and manage underlying problems more effectively. Individuals can avoid the metallic tasting experience by consulting with healthcare professionals to rule out any serious issues and making necessary dietary or lifestyle modifications.

For more information read the full blog at Dr Amarnathan's Dental Care Website