If you’re thinking about rebuilding your smile after tooth loss, you may be considering dentures because of their centuries of proven effectiveness and affordability. While they offer the chance to enjoy life with a complete smile once again, they have their downsides, one of which is their impact on how you taste food. Keep reading to learn how these prosthetics affect your ability to enjoy mealtime and why opting for dental implants might be the better option.
How Dentures Keep You From Tasting the Foods You Love
Even before you receive your dentures, there’s a good chance that you’re already noticing a change in what tastes flavorful and what doesn’t. As you age, your sense of taste and smell begins to diminish, growing weaker over time. This is why some older individuals start using more salt – a problem that can negatively affect the body and mouth.
When it comes to dentures, though, these prosthetics are designed to encourage better oral function and bite force. However, if you are without a full set of upper teeth, your denture will cover the roof of your mouth – an area that consists of “taste receptors,” which allow you to determine if something is good or bad.
Other ways dentures can keep you from tasting your favorite foods include:
- The use of denture adhesive. When applied, this added layer of stability can create a metallic taste in the mouth, negatively impacting your taste. This is why it’s important to make sure dentures fit snugly and see a dentist if you notice they are uncomfortable or slip.
- Forgoing regular denture cleaning. These prosthetics require frequent cleaning in the morning, after meals, and before bed, as food and other harmful particles can accumulate throughout the day. Keeping them clean reduces the chances of your food tasting “off.”
Are There Ways to Wear Dentures and Still Taste Food?
Just because you choose to go with dentures when restoring your smile doesn’t mean you have to give up the joys of eating altogether. There are things you can do to improve this sensation, such as:
- Keeping your dentures clean and allowing them to soak overnight. This eliminates stains, food build-up, and other harmful particles that might otherwise wreak havoc on your oral health and day-to-day life.
- Seeing your dentist if your dentures do not seem to fit properly so they can be relined for improved comfort and stability.
Another option is choosing to go with dental implants instead of dentures. Capable of supporting this type of prosthetic, it is secured in place on top of multiple implant posts as opposed to relying on natural suction. Also, they’re crafted so that they do not cover your palate, allowing you to eat and enjoy the taste of every meal.
While dental implants are more expensive than traditional dentures, it’s important to determine what is most important when making your decision. For many, being able to taste all types of food is a sense they don’t want to lose. If you feel the same way, don’t hesitate to ask your dentist about the possibility of moving forward with permanent prosthetics.
About the Author
Dr. H. Douglas Clark III leads the team at Hill Avenue Dental and provides updated technology and services to individuals living in and around Superior. Offering dentures and dental implants to those living with missing teeth, he and his team can produce beautiful prosthetics that deliver a better quality of life. However, if you or a loved one is having trouble deciding which method of treatment to choose, we invite you to visit our website or call (715) 392-5161. Dr. Clark will go over the pros and cons of each so that you can feel confident making the right decision about your smile.