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Getting dentures can restore your ability to chew and speak comfortably, but some people notice another change after receiving their new teeth: food doesn’t seem to taste quite the same. Although dentures don’t usually eliminate your sense of taste, they can temporarily or sometimes noticeably change how you experience flavors. Let’s discuss it in depth.
Why Can Dentures Affect Taste?
Your sense of taste comes primarily from taste buds located on your tongue and throughout your mouth. However, flavor is also influenced by your sense of smell, temperature, texture, and other sensations.
Upper dentures can sometimes cover part of the roof of your mouth, known as the palate. Because the palate contributes to how food feels and interacts with your mouth, covering it with a denture may alter the way certain foods taste or feel. Some people describe flavors as slightly muted or different after getting dentures.
The material and thickness of the denture can also affect your experience. Fortunately, many people adjust to these changes as they become accustomed to wearing their dentures.
Does Everyone Experience a Change?
No. Some denture wearers don’t notice any difference in their sense of taste, while others notice changes during the first few weeks. An upper denture is generally more likely to affect flavor perception than a lower denture because it covers part of the palate.
Taste changes may also be related to other factors, including medications, dry mouth, aging, oral infections, or changes in overall health. Therefore, a noticeable change in taste shouldn’t automatically be blamed on dentures.
How Can You Adjust?
If food doesn’t seem as flavorful as it once did, give yourself time to adapt. Experimenting with different foods, textures, herbs, and seasonings can make meals more enjoyable. Staying hydrated can also help if dry mouth is contributing to changes in taste.
Keeping your dentures clean is important as well. Food particles, plaque, and denture buildup can contribute to unpleasant tastes or odors. Follow your dentist’s instructions for cleaning and caring for your dentures.
Talk to Your Dentist About Persistent Changes
A change in taste after getting dentures isn’t necessarily a cause for concern, particularly while you’re adjusting to your new appliance. However, persistent or significant changes should be discussed with your dentist.
Your dentist can check whether your dentures fit properly and look for other potential causes of altered taste. If your dentures are too thick, uncomfortable, loose, or otherwise affecting your ability to enjoy meals, adjustments or other solutions may be available.
With time and proper care, most people can adapt to wearing dentures and continue enjoying their favorite foods. If your dentures are affecting your ability to taste or enjoy food, don’t hesitate to bring the issue up at your next dental appointment.
About the Author
Dr. Christopher Cowell has built trust with the DeLand community he serves through 20 years of reliable, patient-focused dental care. He earned his dental degree from the University of Florida College of Dentistry and continually improves his skills through active memberships in the American Dental Association and the Florida Dental Association. If you’re looking for a solution for missing teeth, Dr. Cowell and his team offer full, partial, and implant dentures. Visit our website for more information or call (386) 734-8585.