Dentures are the tried-and-true solution for tooth loss because they’re a customizable, versatile way to replace some or all of your missing teeth. However, they rely on a firm suction against your connective tissues to remain in place, so it’s best to avoid eating anything too hard, sticky, or crunchy, which could destabilize or dislodge them.
But this isn’t the only way your restoration might affect your meal-times. This tried-and-true solution for tooth loss can also potentially impact your sense of taste. Continue reading to learn more about why this happens and what you can do!
How Is Taste Sensed?
Did you know that most people have an average of between 2,000 and 10,000 taste buds? The majority of these tiny sensors are located on the surface of your tongue, which is partly why it has a textured surface. But they also can be found in the back of the throat, in the upper esophagus, and even on the roof of your mouth.
These are responsible for sensing different flavors, such as bitter, sweet, sour, and salty, in the different foods you consume and sending those transmissions to your brain. Unfortunately, as we age, our sense of flavor naturally weakens as the taste buds shrink, which can make once-delicious foods seem lackluster.
Will Dentures Affect My Sense of Taste?
Dentures rely on a firm bond with the connective tissues over the bony ridges in your mouth to remain firmly in place all day. Not only that, but the upper arch of your restoration likely also covers the roof of your mouth, blocking off different sections of tastebuds. Because fewer sensors are available to communicate the flavors back to your brain, you might start to notice that meals seem lackluster.
Patients who rely no adhesives to help form a more cushiony or reliable bond with their dentures might also notice a metallic flavor due to active ingredients, such as zinc and copper compounds.
Can I Improve My Sense of Taste with Dentures?
You’re not alone if you’re wondering whether there’s anything you can do to improve the flavor of the foods you eat with your dentures inserted. It might help to ensure that you’re cleaning them regularly to avoid plaque buildup that can affect your sense of taste or the fit of your dentures.
You might also contact your dentist to ask about other solutions for tooth loss, such as implant dentures, which are anchored to biocompatible posts that are surgically placed in your jaw for stronger, more reliable replacement teeth.
But thankfully, many patients find that their sense of taste gradually returns as they adjust to the presence of their dentures, so they can continue to enjoy a variety of flavorful, wholesome foods to support their oral and general health.
Meet the Author
Dr. Christel Cochell has nearly 20 years of experience helping families build and maintain happy, healthy smiles. She earned her Doctor of Dental Medicine from the Oregon Health & Science University in Portland, and remains committed to extensive continuing education to stay abreast of the latest technology and treatment options. Today, she provides a complete menu of services, including dentures, to meet your unique dental needs at one convenient location. You can request an appointment on the website or call (503) 585-8688.