Dentures look and feel more realistic than ever before, thanks to new technologies and materials. You can enjoy all your favorite foods because your dentures will fit like a glove. You will bite and chew with ease to maintain a nutritious diet. However, if you’re replacing your upper teeth, you might have concerns about it diminishing your sense of taste. Although it is possible, it’s usually only a short-term issue. Nonetheless, you have other options to treat your tooth loss. Here’s how you can replace your lost teeth, without it affecting taste sensations.
Loss of Taste Sensations
It’s no secret that your eyesight and hearing can decrease with age, but those aren’t the only senses that are affected. Food can seem less appealing as your ability to detect certain flavors as you age. Not to mention, your ability to smell can also fade as time passes, which also affects your taste.
When combined with dentures covering the roof of your mouth, it’s normal to worry about your taste declining even further, but there’s nothing to fear.
Dentures and Taste Sensations
A denture covers the roof of the mouth, relying on suction to stay in place. Not everyone experiences changes in taste, but it’s not uncommon, either. Usually, it occurs if your dentures aren’t cleaned well. Low-quality plastics used for dentures are more likely to cause this problem because they have larger pores to trap food residue, plaque, and bacteria. Denture creams can also change the way your food tastes.
Preserve Your Taste Sensations
Dentures don’t have to ruin mealtime. You can reduce the risk by keeping your dentures clean. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a mild dishwashing liquid or hand soap to clean them at least twice daily and rinse them after eating. Use an overnight soaking solution to kill any bacteria your toothbrush couldn’t reach. If you use denture cream, wipe away any excess.
Choose an Alternative Option
If you’re still concerned about losing some of your tasting ability, you have other options besides a denture that covers the roof of your mouth. You may also be a candidate for one with a horseshoe shape, like those used for the lower arch.
An implant denture is another great alternative. Dental implants are surgically placed into your jawbone to serve as new tooth roots. They will anchor your denture in place, so you’ll never have to worry about slipping or irritation. You’ll also regain 70% of your biting force without covering the upper palate.
Discuss any concerns with your dentist, and they’ll help you make the best choice to replace your lost teeth without sacrificing your enjoyment of food.
About Dr. Eunyoung Shim
Dr. Shim earned her dental degree from the New York University College of Dentistry and has continued her training in various specialties, like general dentistry and cosmetic dentistry. She is a proud member of several professional organizations, including the American Dental Association. Request an appointment through her website or call her office at (469) 208-6017.