Tooth loss typically becomes more common as you age. Fortunately, one of the best ways to restore your missing pearly whites is with dentures. You’ll be able to speak clearly, smile confidently, and eat most of your favorite foods comfortably for years. But did you know this dental restoration can also impact your sense of taste? This can make enjoying your meals more challenging, especially when your palate can naturally diminish with age. Keep reading to learn about the link between dentures and taste, and what you can do to address it!
The Connection Between Dentures & Your Sense of Taste
Since your dentures won’t cover up your tongue, it seems impossible that they can influence your sense of taste. However, this perception can also be affected by one of your other primary senses: smell. Your olfaction plays an essential part in your ability to taste things, informing your brain of the specifics of what you’re tasting. Ever noticed how meals and beverages often taste bland when you’re sick? With your sense of smell blocked, it can be difficult for your brain to identify what you’re eating. Although dentures don’t cause congestion, one that rests on your upper palate to stay in place can obstruct your olfaction.
Ways to Reduce the Influence of Your Dentures
While your upper restorations can block your ability to taste, you can try several measures to help reduce their impact, including:
- Ensure your dentures properly fit: Should your restorations affect your capacity to taste, it could mean they aren’t fitting correctly. This can cause various negative complications, so you’ll want to visit your dentist for adjustments or replacements as soon as possible.
- Clean your dentures frequently: Your dentures can often accumulate debris and food particles throughout the day that can offer smells and tastes of their own. By brushing and soaking them regularly, you can minimize the effect they’ll have on your olfaction.
- Speak with your dentist about your concerns: Your dentist will be able to evaluate your situation and detect any underlying issues that may be causing a diminished sense of taste. They can also offer alternative tooth replacements to boost your quality of life.
How Implant Dentures Can Help
If you’re having difficulties with your sense of smell and taste with dentures, feel free to consult your dentist about implant dentures. These restorations will be directly anchored to your jawbone instead of relying on suction to remain in place. This means a full upper implant denture won’t need to cover your upper palate. You’ll be able to smell and taste all of your favorite meals like normal again.
Don’t hesitate to speak with your dental team about implant dentures if you’re having trouble with tasting food. They’ll be more than happy to discuss your treatment options so that you can return to enjoying the full use of your pearly whites!
About the Author
Dr. Christine Snow earned her dental doctorate from the University of Kentucky College of Dentistry. She’s also a member of several organizations like the Chicago Dental Society and the Illinois State Dental Society. She provides a wide selection of advanced and comprehensive services, including dentures and dental implants. If you’d like to schedule a consultation, visit her website or call 815-462-9990.