Having a bad taste in your mouth is a common occurrence. It happens to all of us at some point in time. We generally notice it, then go about our day and forget that it ever happened. When we start to notice it more often and it lasts longer, that's when there could be an issue. Here are some possible culprits of what's causing that terrible taste in your mouth.

Dry Mouth

Saliva reduces the food particles and bacteria in your mouth. A dry or sticky mouth is caused by a lack of saliva and accompanies a bad taste and bad breath. Dry mouth is also caused by medications, tobacco use, and getting older.

Acid Reflux

When stomach acid travels up through the esophagus, it can cause acid reflux or heartburn. A common symptom is a sour taste in the mouth. Other symptoms are chest pain, coughing, nausea and a sore throat.

Oral Hygiene

Cavities, gum disease, abscesses, and infections can be the cause of the bad taste in your mouth. Brushing, flossing and using mouth rinse will help prevent poor oral hygiene.

Other symptoms could include:
bad breath
bleeding gums
red or swollen mouth tissue
sensitive teeth

Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B is an infection of the liver and could be deadly if untreated. A lingering taste in your mouth is one symptom of it. If you suspect that you have Hepatitis B, contact your doctor immediately.

Other symptoms include:
nausea
appetite loss
bad breath
diarrhea
fever
vomiting

Vitamins

Daily multivitamins and dietary supplements can cause an odd taste in your mouth. Other supplements that can cause a bad taste in your mouth are:
zinc
calcium
iron
chromium
copper
fish oil
prenatal vitamins

These are just a few causes that could cause a bad taste in your mouth. Visit your primary care doctor for a complete diagnosis.