A metallic taste in the mouth may be caused by oral hygiene, nutrient deficiencies, infections, and taking certain supplements. It may also result from health conditions like allergies and nerve damage.

A metallic taste in your mouth is a symptom of a type of taste disorder known as dysgeusia.

It may develop suddenly or over longer periods, and you may also experience a burning sensation in your mouth.

Keep reading to learn more about the potential causes of a metallic taste in your mouth.

Not maintaining proper oral hygiene may contribute to taste dysfunction and a metallic taste in your mouth.

An altered taste may be a symptom of several oral conditions, such as:

A bad, metallic taste in the mouth is also a symptom of gum disease. Blood in the mouth, such as the kind caused by bleeding gums, can cause a metallic taste.

Brush your teeth twice a day and floss at least once a day to keep your mouth and teeth healthy. Scheduling regular dental cleanings can also help reduce your risk of oral health issues.

Your sense of taste is closely related to your sense of smell. When your sense of smell is distorted, it can impact your sense of taste.

Infections that may affect your sense of smell and cause a metallic taste in the mouth include:

You may experience a metallic taste in your mouth if you’re pregnant, especially early in pregnancy.

The cause is unknown, but research suggests the metallic taste may be caused by the hormonal changes you experience during early pregnancy.

Your central nervous system (CNS) sends messages to the rest of your body, including messages about taste. A CNS disorder or injury can distort these messages, resulting in impaired taste.

Neurological conditions that may cause a metallic taste in the mouth include:

Middle ear surgery may be performed due to chronic ear infections.

Research suggests this may lead to altered taste because surgery can damage the chorda tympani nerve (CTN), which plays a role in your sense of taste.

A 2022 case study following a 57-year-old male found that removing the CTN during middle ear surgery may help prevent symptoms of a metallic taste in the mouth.

A metallic taste in the mouth is a common side effect of certain medications, including:

The protease inhibitors nirmatrelvir and ritonavir are the primary ingredients in Paxlovid, an antiviral medication that has gained popularity as a COVID-19 treatment.

Researchers have identified Paxlovid mouth, or a metallic taste, as a possible side effect.

Metals are common ingredients in dietary supplements. Taking supplements, especially in high doses, can leave a metallic taste in your mouth, especially if they contain the following:

A 2021 review suggests that you may also experience a metallic sensation after eating foods fortified with these minerals.

According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), some forms of chemotherapy can cause a metallic taste in the mouth. This side effect is sometimes called chemo mouth or metal mouth.

Up to 75% of people who undergo chemotherapy experience taste alterations from chemotherapy, which may include a metallic taste in the mouth.

Radiation therapy can also cause a metallic taste.

According to the National Safety Council, exposure to large amounts of inorganic arsenic and organic mercury may cause a metallic taste in the mouth.

Metallic taste is a symptom of some food allergies, such as shellfish or tree nuts.

You may also experience a metallic mouth up to 2 days after eating pine nuts. This temporary sensation, which is not an allergic reaction, is sometimes called pine nut syndrome or pine mouth.

Lastly, using certain types of cookware can affect the way your food tastes, leading to a metallic taste.

Reactive cookware is composed of metals such as aluminum and cast iron. Cooking foods in reactive cookware may cause the metals to leach.

If you experience a metallic taste after eating a certain type of food, speak with a doctor.

Is metallic taste in the mouth a medical emergency?

A metallic taste in the mouth is generally not cause for concern.

However, it could be an early symptom of anaphylaxis, which could be life threatening.

If you or someone you’re with experiences symptoms of anaphylaxis, call 911 to get immediate medical attention.

If you have gastrointestinal problems like acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), you may notice a metallic taste in your mouth.

Symptoms, including heartburn and indigestion, may be caused by stomach acid rising to your mouth. It may also be a side effect of medications to treat GI issues.

Speak with a healthcare professional if the metallic taste in your mouth doesn’t go away or there’s no apparent cause.

The doctor may refer you to an otolaryngologist, commonly known as an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctor.

An otolaryngologist may order a taste and smell test to help determine the cause and extent of your taste disorder. They may also order an MRI or nasal endoscopy to look at your sinuses.

Treatment of metallic taste in the mouth depends on the underlying cause.

If a sinus issue is to blame, the metallic taste should go away once the sinus issue resolves itself. If a medication is causing a metallic taste, ask a doctor about alternatives.

Finding ways to mask the metallic taste may help while you wait for it to go away.

Here are some ways to reduce or temporarily eliminate a metallic taste:

  • Chew sugar-free gum or sugar-free mints.
  • Brush your teeth after meals.
  • Stay hydrated, which helps prevent dry mouth.
  • Avoid smoking cigarettes.
  • Experiment with different foods, spices, and seasonings.
  • Use nonmetallic or nonreactive dishes, utensils, and cookware.

Some medications may improve your sense of taste if you’ve developed parosmia, a type of distorted sense of smell. Speak with a doctor to learn more about your options.

What does a metallic taste in your mouth indicate?

A metallic taste in your mouth may be caused by eating certain foods, pregnancy, chemotherapy, taking certain medications, and neurodegenerative health conditions.

What deficiency causes a metallic taste in your mouth?

Deficiencies in copper, zinc, vitamin B, and vitamin C may cause a metallic taste in your mouth.

When should I worry about a weird taste in my mouth?

Speak with a healthcare professional if you experience a metallic taste in your mouth after eating a certain type of food, or if your symptoms worsen or don’t go away.

Why do I constantly feel tired and have a metallic taste in my mouth?

Fatigue and a metallic taste in the mouth are symptoms of certain health conditions, such as allergies, nutrient deficiencies, and neurodegenerative conditions, among others.

A metallic taste in the mouth is most often not caused by something serious.

However, sometimes it may indicate an underlying health condition or the beginning of anaphylactic shock.

Speak with a healthcare professional if you experience metallic taste and it doesn’t go away. They could provide a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.