People often find that they have unpleasant tastes that are difficult to get out of their mouths after consuming certain spices, foods, and medicines, but this issue can usually be resolved with a thorough oral hygiene session. However, a nasty taste that will not go away after cleaning your mouth several times may be a sign of a serious oral infection that requires emergency dental care. Here’s a quick look at how this can happen and how your emergency dentist can help.
How Can an Oral Infection Cause a Nasty Taste in My Mouth?
The human brain is programmed to detest the tastes and smells produced by infectious bacteria and their byproducts because this helps people avoid serious health issues like food poisoning (think rotten eggs, spoiled meat, decaying fruit, etc.). In some cases, the harmful oral bacteria that cause oral infections can leave a sour, bitter, or foul taste in a person’s mouth due to the chemicals they secrete and the residue of the decaying oral tissues. Oral infections that can leave a persistent gross taste in your mouth include:
- Untreated cavities – These may be hiding between your teeth where you can’t see them.
- Advanced gum disease – be wary of bleeding, red, or swollen gums.
- Dental abscesses – This is a severely painful warm bump full of pus that can form on the gum tissue supporting a tooth.
How Can My Dentist Restore My Oral Health?
Luckily, your dentist can address these destructive oral health problems with a variety of effective treatments. For example, tooth-colored fillings can bring an immediate end to a nasty dental infection by eliminating decayed enamel and replacing it with beautiful composite resin that looks and feels just like natural tooth structure. However, the only way to know for sure which type of treatment will be best for you is to schedule a consultation at their office. After a brief exam, they’ll be able to determine the best way to restore your smile.
Don’t let an untreated dental ailment lead to a host of undesirable consequences like tooth loss, severe pain, and dangerous secondary infections like sepsis. Consulting with your dentist can help you understand how to keep your teeth and gums in excellent shape.
About the Author
Dr. Paul Samia earned his dental degree at the Touro College of Dental Medicine at New York Medical College and develops his skills further with continuing education coursework. He is proud to be a member of the Academy of General Dentistry and regularly works with charitable initiatives. His office in Garner offers general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry. If you are concerned about a possible oral infection, contact his practice online or dial (919) 779-2818.