How to Get Rid of the Taste of Clay from Your Mouth
Have you ever participated in a pottery class, played in the mud, or even accidentally ingested some clay while helping with a DIY project? Whatever the reason, having a lingering taste of clay in your mouth can be quite unpleasant and annoying. Fortunately, there are several ways to get rid of the taste of clay from your mouth and restore your normal sense of taste.
Causes of the Taste of Clay
Before we dive into the solutions, let’s understand why you might be experiencing the taste of clay in your mouth. There are a few possible reasons:
- Contact with clay: When you come into contact with clay, whether through touch or ingestion, tiny particles can transfer to your tongue, roof of your mouth, and even the lining of your cheeks and lips.
- Mouth sores or gum irritation: If you have mouth sores, gum irritation, or other mouth lesions, they can trap tiny clay particles, leading to an unpleasant taste.
- Poor oral hygiene: Failing to practice good oral hygiene, such as not brushing and flossing regularly, can create an environment for bacteria to thrive, which may amplify the taste of clay.
How to Get Rid of the Taste of Clay
Now that we’ve covered the possible causes, let’s focus on the solutions to get rid of the taste of clay:
- Rinse with water: Start by rinsing your mouth with water to wash away any loose clay particles. Gargle with water for at least 30 seconds before spitting it out.
- Mouthwash: Use a mouthwash that contains antibacterial properties, such as chlorhexidine or cetylpyridinium chloride, to help eliminate bacteria and reduce the taste of clay.
- Mouthwash with baking soda: Mix 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda with 1/2 cup of water to create a paste. Apply the paste to your tongue, roof of your mouth, and cheeks, and let it sit for 30 seconds to 1 minute before rinsing off with water.
- *Fg mouthwash**: A tablespoon of vodka or rum (about 1/2 teaspoon) mixed with 2 tablespoons of water can help kill bacteria and reduce the taste of clay. Be cautious when using this method, as the high-alcohol content may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with sensitive stomachs.
- Saltwater gargle: Dissolve 1/2 teaspoon of salt in a full glass of warm water and gargle for 30 seconds to 1 minute, then spit out. This can help reduce swelling and kill bacteria.
- Avoid irritants: Refrain from consuming spicy food, drinks, or irritants that may further irritate your mouth and exacerbate the taste of clay.
- Consult a healthcare professional: If the taste of clay persists or is accompanied by other symptoms like a sore throat, fever, or toothache, consult a healthcare professional or dentist for further guidance.
Prevention is the Best Cure
To prevent the taste of clay from occurring in the first place, follow good oral hygiene practices:
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss once a day to remove food particles and stubborn plaque.
- Rinse your mouth with an antibacterial mouthwash.
- Limit your consumption of sugary or acidic foods and drinks, which can contribute to oral bacteria growth.
By understanding the causes and following these solutions, you can effectively get rid of the taste of clay and restore your normal sense of taste.
… in a clay water jug from Mexico? (Very much like this one that I downloaded from internet.)
I think it’s called a bojito and I bought a ‘full size’ one several years ago in PV.
I know the whole point of it is to keep the water cool, so it is completely unglazed. But when I use it, the water has a taste to it … likely from the clay, or dust … that I just can’t get past.
I truly want to use it, as I need to drink more water and filling this jugs and keeping it where I sit would be very helpful, but how can I make the water I pour from it more palatable?
Thank you.