As you get used to your new dentures, you’re likely to experience a few minor discomforts. One problem your dentist might mention is a change in the way food tastes. It’s very common for new dentures to affect your sense of taste, but there are ways to prevent it from happening.

How Dentures Cause Loss of Taste

Dentures can contribute to changes in how you taste food in several ways. One common cause is an upper denture that covers the hard palate, which is the roof of your mouth. Although most of your taste buds are located on your tongue, some exist on your hard palate and in your throat. By blocking those taste buds, you are missing some of the avenues that contribute to flavor. Because your tongue taste buds encounter your dentures first, it’s likely that the first taste registered by your brain will be plastic. For most people, these effects only last for a short time while they adjust to their dentures. This isn’t as common with the tooth implant style of dentures, so if you are concerned about it, discuss your options with your dentist. 

Other Factors of Taste Loss 

Although your dentures themselves are the most likely culprit of a shift in taste, other factors can influence changes in food flavor as well. Aging has a significant effect on food flavors, reducing the sensation by as much as half in some cases. This is due to a marked decline in the sense of smell as we get older. By some estimates, older people require up to 50 times the concentration of smells as younger people in order to register them. For some people, the effect of dentures on the taste buds is only exacerbated by this natural downfall.

Changes in your sense of taste can also be brought on by overuse of denture fixatives. This can be solved by better fitting dentures or a tooth implant form. It could also be due to not cleaning dentures as directed by your dentist. Bacteria and food deposits can build up, altering the flavor of food. 

Preventing Changes to Taste

There are two keys to avoiding changes in food flavor after getting dentures. Get properly fitted dentures and be diligent about cleaning them. Denture adhesives should only be used as a backup. If you have to use them regularly, your dentures don't fit properly and you should see your dentist about refitting. Opting for tooth implants instead of dentures can also reduce taste loss, as they don't block the taste buds. Follow your dentist’s care instructions for your teeth, and make sure to remove all food and debris. 

If you need dentures, or want to explore other cosmetic dentistry options, the trusted dentists at Pure Dental Care can help. From their offices overlooking Central Park, the team will make you feel at ease as they use state-of-the-art technology and treatments to give you a beautiful, healthy smile. Learn more about their services online, or call (212) 256-1292 to schedule an appointment.