CAN WEARING DENTURES AFFECT MY SENSE OF TASTE?

Dentures are removable appliances that replace missing teeth. Dentures allow patients to eat and speak normally and restore a smile.

What are dentures?

Dentures are a type of prosthetic device designed to replace missing teeth. They are typically made out of acrylic resin, sometimes in combination with porcelain for partial dentures. In other words, they act as a substitute for your natural teeth.

When you lose one or more teeth, it can be difficult to speak properly and chew food. A denture can help fill in the gap and restore your ability to chew and speak normally again. Most types of dentures are made from impressions of your mouth to ensure a precise fit.

How are they placed?

To create the dentures, your dentist will take impressions of your jaw, which will be used to form your custom denture. The molds are created based on your exact measurements to ensure a proper fit. Once your custom dentures are created, you will need to visit the dentist to have them properly fitted and adjusted for comfort. Typically, your dentures should stay in place with suction or adhesive.

Could my dentures affect my ability to taste food?

Dentures can impact your sense of taste, but there are ways to compensate for it so you can still enjoy your favorite foods. Here are a few tips to keep in mind.

• Practice wearing and eating with your dentures at home before any big event where you’ll be eating or drinking a lot. That way, you’ll feel more at ease if something goes wrong, and you’ll be able to fix it right away.
• If your dentures make you uncomfortable when you’re in public or in an unfamiliar place, remember to remove them while you’re there and put them back in after you leave.
• If you’ve recently had your dentures placed and you’re still adjusting, avoid foods that require a lot of chewing. This could take the edge off your appetite until you’re able to eat normally again.
• Try to stick to softer foods for the time being. Hard foods like nuts or chewy candies could get stuck in your dentures and become uncomfortable. Stick to foods that are easy to chew and won’t cause you any issues until you have adjusted to your new dentures.
• Make sure you’re taking your dentures out every night before you sleep, so your gums get the rest they need to stay healthy and strong. If you don’t remove your dentures, you could wind up with sores on your gums that will make them even more sensitive. Your dentist will show you how to properly care for your dentures as well. If they aren’t fitting or causing you discomfort, make sure to schedule an appointment to discuss your options so you can get the help necessary.
• If you notice that your dentures are affecting your ability to eat or even speak comfortably, schedule an appointment with your dentist. You may need to have your dentures refitted or replaced entirely with newer models that work better for your mouth’s shape and provide a better fit overall. Make an appointment with your dentist today to discuss this issue further and get the help you need!

If you are interested in learning more about how dentures can help you restore your smile, call us and schedule an appointment.