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It's not uncommon for the metallic taste to linger on the tongue, especially if you're healthy in general. Taste is intimately tied to the olfactory receptors, which is why symptoms like metallic taste impact the taste buds.

What Causes a Metallic Taste in the Mouth?

A metallic taste is a disorganized taste sensation in the mouth, also known as Dysgeusia. Anything that disrupts the normal tasting mechanism can cause a change in taste sensations. The taste and flavors we experience are the results of the interplay of sensory neurons and the sense of smell in the taste buds. This combination notifies the brain of the compounds to taste.

A metallic taste in the tongue can be caused by several circumstances. The condition may resolve itself without medical assistance or with a change of lifestyle, such as switching to an interdental electric toothbrush, discontinuing a medicine, etc. But, sometimes, it can also mean an underlying problem that may necessitate medical attention.

 That said, the following are some possible causes of a metallic taste in your mouth—

Oral Hygiene Issues

A lack of regular brushing or flossing can lead to the development of tooth and gum problems. It can include infections like gingivitis, periodontitis, and oral infections. These can be treated with a dentist's prescription. The taste of the metal should fade as the infection heal.  

Infections

Metallic taste caused by infections is temporary— it fades when infections heal. 

Cancer Treatment

Chemotherapy or radiation therapy can cause a metallic taste in the mouth. 

Pregnancy

Some women notice that their sense of taste changes during the early stages of pregnancy, which can induce metallic taste. 

Prescription Pharmaceuticals 

When one is on antibiotics, the body absorbs them and expels them through saliva. This is how the metallic taste surfaces in the mouth. Also, antidepressants that generally dry the mouth can cause a metallic taste because they impact the original functioning of the taste buds. 

Vitamins/ Over-the-counter Drugs

A metallic taste can be caused by multivitamins containing heavy metals, including copper, zinc, or chromium. Even cold treatments like zinc lozenges can impact the taste buds. Other than that, iron and calcium supplements for prenatal vitamins can also cause a metallic taste. The bitter metallic taste leaves as the body processes the vitamins or drugs. If it does not, double-check your dosage to avoid consuming more than prescribed. 

Dementia

People suffering from dementia frequently have taste anomalies. And, as taste buds are linked to the brain through nerves, they may experience a metallic taste in the mouth. 

Chemical Exposure

Exposure to mercury or lead— breathing in elevated concentrations of these compounds can cause a metallic taste. 

Preventing Metallic Taste 

You can avoid the metallic taste in your tongue by taking a few precautions. Use a certified electric toothbrush to keep the teeth and tongue clean— brush at least twice daily. Floss once daily, drink plenty of water, avoid hot foods (as much as possible), use non-metal utensils, and avoid smoking. 

Conclusion

Humans are generally born with about 10,000 taste buds. But as one gets older, the taste buds start to reduce. This is why more than children, older people can handle more powerful tastes. Other factors that impair the sense of taste include smoking, nose allergies, sinus infection, pregnancy, or even medications. However, metallic tastes can also be an indication of an infection or another problem. This is why one must promptly see a doctor and have the symptoms diagnosed. Inform your doctor or healthcare professional if a metallic taste continues or raises discomfort. If you are having trouble breathing or swallowing, visit a doctor right away.