Locations:
SearchAdvertisement
The Short Answer from an oral surgeon
A: It is not uncommon for our sense of taste to change, or diminish, with time. This is due to many factors. As we age, the number of taste buds that we have decreases. This usually begins to occur in our 40s if we’re female or in our 50s if we’re male.
Advertisement
Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy
At the same time, our remaining taste buds also begin to shrink, or atrophy, and do not function as well. This results in decreased sensitivity to taste, typically affecting salty or sweet, and eventually sour or bitter foods. Around the same time, our sense of smell may also start to decrease, which can contribute to the loss of taste.
—Oral surgeon Michael Horan, MD, DDS, PhD
Advertisement
Learn more about our editorial process.
Advertisement
Some people experience taste — or certain flavors — more intensely than others
These berries may make life taste a little sweeter, but they may not be for everyone
8 reasons salty mouth happens and how to treat it
Expert advice on what might be causing that strange taste
An expert explains the primary causes
Pinpointing the culprit may suggest a solution
You might have a sensitive gag reflex — but gagging while brushing can also be a result of certain medical conditions
Stay hydrated, use a humidifier and try sugar-free candies or over-the-counter products with xylitol
If you’re feeling short of breath, sleep can be tough — propping yourself up or sleeping on your side may help
If you fear the unknown or find yourself needing reassurance often, you may identify with this attachment style
If you’re looking to boost your gut health, it’s better to get fiber from whole foods
