Everyone has experienced some sort of bitter taste in mouth after waking up. However, in some people this taste occurs frequently and does not disappear easily, even after brushing and rinsing the mouth. A bad taste in mouth which would not go away for a long period time is usually called Dysgeusia.

Causes of Bitter Taste in Mouth

Causes of bitter taste in mouth vary from simple cases like smoking or small injuries to serve conditions like chemical poisoning neurological disorders or autoimmune diseases.

1. Common Causes

• Smoking
• Pregnancy
• Breathing through the mouth
• Dry mouth
• Dehydration

2. Certain Diseases

• Allergies
• Gingivitis
• Glossitis
• Polyps in the nose
• Infection of the salivary glands
• Inflammation of the upper airways
• Deficiency of vitamin B12 and zinc
• Vomiting or returning of stomach acid
• Autoimmune diseases such as Bell's palsy, or Sjogren's syndrome

3. Some Injuries

The following injuries or traumas may contribute to a bad taste in mouth:

• Bitten or burning tongue
• Injuries of the head, nose or mouth
• Injuries of nerves with which we feel the taste
• Exposure to toxins, like pesticides or ingesting toxic plants

4. Other Causes

Some medications that cannot be swallowed quickly would also result in a bitter taste in mouth. Braces or similar dental appliances, surgeries involving teeth, ear, throat and nose as well as radiation therapy on the head or neck could bring about unpleasant taste too.

How to Deal With Bitter Taste in Mouth

Those who have the problem of bitter taste in mouth certainly want to get rid of it. Therefore, it is necessary to find the cause of a bitter taste. Once we find the cause, it is easier to solve the consequences. Try some of the following ways.

1. Brush with Baking Soda

Apply a half teaspoon of baking soda on a wet toothbrush. Put the toothpaste over it. Brush teeth, front and back, as well as the tongue for two and a half minutes. Please mind that you should brush your teeth at least twice a day and remember to try some dental floss which would reduce the bacteria accumulation in your mouth.

2. Try with a Tongue Scraper

Place the tongue scraper on the back of the tongue; slowly pull it forward with light and gentle pressure. Move it back and forth through the tongue and don’t forget to clean your scraper after each stroke.

3. Use Mouth Rinse

Swish in the mouth 1 tablespoon of mouth rinse. Half a minute is enough, but you can keep it longer if necessary or if it is required by the instructions. After that, clean the teeth with mint taste dental floss.

4. Take OTC Antacid

Although you do not feel the symptoms of indigestion or reflux, they may be the cause of the bitter taste in your mouth. Buy over the counter antacid and try to get rid of the bitter taste. Just remember to strictly follow the instructions.

5. Eat Citrus Fruits

Eat citrus fruits and wash the bitter taste by stimulating the saliva production that way. For alternative options, you may also resort to some drinking juices like lemon or orange juice to get rid of the taste.

6. Other Natural Remedies

• Chew one teaspoon of cinnamon or cloves several times a day.
• Eat more times but small meals and avoid spicy and fried foods to avoid acid reflux.
• Drink plenty of water to get rid of toxins in the mouth and reduce the amount of acid in the stomach.
• Consume peppermints or breathe mints with citrus flavor, especially after spicy food.

You may watch the video below to learn more about bitter taste in mouth, such as the causes as well as the home remedies to treat it: 

When to See a Doctor

There are times when a bitter taste in mouth requires consulting a doctor immediately.

• Confusion, unconsciousness, changes in alertness
• Problems with breathing, shortness of breath or wheezing
• Inability to swallow
• Swelling of the lips or tongue
• Dropping or facial paralysis
• Speaking problems