Causes of Bitter Taste and Bad Breath
Disease description:
I have been waking up in the morning for the past two days feeling a persistent bitter taste in my mouth and bad breath. I would like to know what might be causing these symptoms?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Liu Chao
Bitter taste and bad breath are common oral symptoms that may be caused by various factors. The following are some possible causes of bitter taste and bad breath:
1. Poor oral hygiene: Accumulation of dental plaque, tartar, and food debris on the teeth can lead to bacterial overgrowth in the mouth, producing a foul odor and simultaneously irritating the oral mucosa, causing a bitter taste.
2. Periodontal disease: Periodontal disease is gum inflammation caused by dental plaque and, in severe cases, can result in loose teeth or even tooth loss. Patients with periodontal disease often have persistent bad breath and a bitter taste in the mouth.
3. Dry mouth syndrome: Reduced saliva secretion decreases the mouth's self-cleaning ability, leading to excessive bacterial growth in the oral cavity, which can cause both bad breath and a bitter taste.
4. Gastrointestinal issues: Conditions such as acid reflux, gastritis, and gastric ulcers may cause stomach contents to flow back into the esophagus and mouth, resulting in a bitter taste and bad breath.
5. Liver or gallbladder diseases: Dysfunction of the liver or gallbladder, such as hepatitis or gallstones, can affect normal bile secretion and metabolism, leading to a bitter taste in the mouth.
In daily life, maintaining good dietary habits, avoiding spicy and greasy foods, and drinking plenty of water can help alleviate these uncomfortable symptoms.
