Now that you have customized dentures to replace your missing teeth, you may be wondering what it will be like to eat with your new smile. Will dentures affect your taste? Eating confidently is something you’ve been looking forward to, but what if your prosthetics keep you from being able to really enjoy various meals and snacks? Find out what you can expect from wearing dentures and what you can do to avoid missing out on the taste of your favorite foods.
The Truth About Dentures and Taste
Although no one wants to admit it, as you get older, food can begin to taste different. While some flavors once appeared bolder and more enjoyable, they can often become bland and lackluster. Unfortunately, this causes many older adults to experience issues with sodium levels because of the copious amount of salt they tend to add to their meals.
Once fitted with dentures, these prosthetics can lead to an inability to taste foods as you did before. The reason is that they are made to cover the palate, which is known for its integral role in being able to taste foods.
When it feels as if your favorite meals are no longer within reach because of your new teeth, you may begin to ingest more salt, eat additional sweets, and avoid cooking altogether – none of which is good for your oral or overall health.
What You Can Do to Lessen the Impact
If the idea of losing your ability to taste the foods you love sounds unappealing, there are things you can do to reduce the potential impact caused by your new teeth. These include:
- Keeping your dentures clean by allowing them to soak each night while asleep and cleaning them thoroughly to remove any bacteria and debris.
- Trying to avoid using denture adhesives, especially when eating, as this can alter the taste of certain foods and beverages.
- Talking to your dentist about choosing implant dentures as opposed to traditional prosthetics, as they do not require the covering of your palate.
- Making sure your dentures fit properly and getting them adjusted or replaced as soon as your notice a problem
Just because you need dentures to replace your missing teeth doesn’t mean you should have to miss out on being able to enjoy the taste of food. Talk to your dentist and consider the various ways you can lessen the impact so that you can appreciate and look forward to eating confidently once again.
About Grand Dental – Aurora
At Grand Dental – Aurora, missing teeth is something our experts strive to address with only the highest-quality solutions. Using dentures, dental bridges, and dental implants to restore smiles, we can rebuild confidence as well as teeth so that you can enjoy all life has to offer. If you are worried that your new prosthetics will hinder your ability to enjoy the taste of food, visit our website or call (630) 538-8302 to find out how we can help.