The Link Between Dentures and Taste

Dentures are a common way to replace missing teeth and regain some of your bite power. They help you maintain your facial shape and are realistic looking, which makes it easier for you to feel confident in your smile. Though there are several benefits to getting dentures, these restorations can have some unexpected effects, including how you taste foods and drinks. Read on to learn about how dentures and taste are connected to each other.

Dentures and Taste: How They’re Linked

Since dentures don’t cover the tongue, how can they change your sense of taste? Surprisingly, the answer has to do with your sense of smell. Smell plays an important role in how you taste things. Your nose can sense things that your tongue can’t, and this is one of the reasons why meals are blander when you’re congested. If you have a full upper denture, it will cover your upper palate, which blocks your nose from helping you fully taste your food.

4 Ways to Minimize the Impact of Your Dentures

Fortunately, there are several things you can do to minimize the effect of your dentures on your sense of taste, such as:

• Keep them clean – Clean your dentures every night to remove food particles that have accumulated on them throughout the day. These food particles can alter the way things smell and taste.
• Make sure your dentures fit – When you aren’t able to properly chew up your food, this prevents you from breaking it down and picking up tasting notes. If your dentures don’t fit correctly, reach out to your dentist right away to have them fixed or replaced so you can chew and taste as intended.
• Consider implant dentures – Implant dentures are anchored to dental implants inserted into your jawbone, which makes them more stable. They also won’t cover your entire upper palate, meaning your sense of smell won’t be impacted as much, and you’ll be able to taste your food better.
• Talk to your dentist – If you’re concerned or have questions about dentures and taste, reach out to your dentist. They may identify an underlying issue that’s causing your sense of taste to be affected or can offer denture alternatives.

Though dentures can help you eat more easily, throwing down on your favorite foods may be less enjoyable if you can’t taste them very well. Speak with your dentist about ways to lessen the impact of dentures on your sense of taste so you can enjoy your meals to the fullest!

About the Practice

Dr. Mark D. Medaugh leads the compassionate team at Valley Dentists of Belchertown. They aim to help you keep your teeth healthy and offer replacement options like dentures to fill in the spaces. They can also teach you about the connection between dentures and taste and make adjustments if necessary so you can enjoy every meal as much as possible. To learn more information or to set up an appointment with Valley Dentists of Belchertown, call their office at (413) 323-4335 or visit their website.