A metallic taste is not usually serious. What you can do to get rid of it will depend on the cause.
Common causes of a metallic taste
There are lots of possible causes of a metallic taste in the mouth.
Common causes include:
- gum disease
- taking certain medicines, like metronidazole or zopiclone
- cancer treatments, like chemotherapy and radiotherapy
- colds, sinus infections and other airway problems
- indigestion
- being pregnant
Sometimes, a lost or changed sense of smell can cause a metallic taste in your mouth.
How to get rid of a metallic taste
If you have a metallic taste in your mouth, what you can do to get rid of it depends on what's causing it. It will sometimes go away by itself.
| Cause | What you can do |
|---|---|
|
Gum disease |
Regularly brush your teeth, use dental floss, have a dental check-up every 6 months |
|
Taking certain medicines |
Speak to a pharmacist for advice – do not stop taking prescribed medicine without medical advice |
|
Chemotherapy or radiotherapy |
Eat stronger tasting food like ginger and spices, and suck on boiled sweets |
|
Colds and other problems with your airways |
The taste should go away once the problem has cleared up |
|
Indigestion |
The taste should go away after treating indigestion |
|
Being pregnant |
The taste is usually temporary and clears up by itself |
Non-urgent advice: See a GP if:
- you have a metallic taste that does not go away
- the metallic taste has no obvious cause
Page last reviewed: 04 August 2023
Next review due: 04 August 2026
