If you’re new to dentures, you may be excited about having a full smile again. You get to enjoy a wider range of foods compared to before, but have you noticed your sense of taste is odd? It can seem muted, but it’s oftentimes only temporary. Here’s why this restoration can mess with this perception and tips to restore it.
Why Do Dentures Affect Taste?
Several things can affect the eating experience. How you perceive flavor, scent, texture, and temperature can give you a level of satisfaction. However, your dentures can affect each of these things.
For instance, while your tongue is home to many of your taste buds, there are some on your gums and upper palate. These structures are covered with this prosthetic. The restoration can even dull the other sensations because they change the way air flows through your mouth and how well you can detect temperature, which can affect how well you can taste your food. So, you may notice they are a bit more lackluster than what they used to be.
Can Anything Else Change Your Taste?
That said, your dentures may not be the only thing you can blame. Certain medications can lead to dry mouth or cause changes to the receptor cells responsible for determining flavor. Bacterial buildup on your prosthetic may also be a culprit to be aware of. In many cases, it may also be because of natural aging. Like sight and hearing, your taste can shift.
How Can You Restore Your Taste Perception?
While having a dull sense of taste can be disheartening, there are ways you can restore it. For many people, when they fully adjust to their dentures or deal with any underlying factors, it comes back. However, you can also try out these tips:
- Brush and soak your dentures daily to remove any plaque on them.
- Rinse and wipe your gums and inner cheek to remove bacteria.
- Be careful using too much denture adhesive, as it can have a lingering taste.
- Have routine visits with your dentures; that way, you can ensure your restoration fits properly no matter what.
You might be able to consider switching to implant dentures. This type of prosthetic removes the need for a plate that covers your upper palate. Though not everyone is the right candidate for them, talking to your dentist can let you know the next steps. That way, you get back your sense of taste and have a great time enjoying a wide range of foods again.
About the Practice
Ready for a full smile you love? Our team at Dental Designs of Maryland – Columbia, MD is dedicated to helping patients restore their missing teeth with reliable solutions like dentures. Led by compassionate dentists, we can ensure you get results that are comfortable and look lifelike. If you have any questions, schedule an appointment or call our office at 443-542-9519.