Our senses naturally change as we age, and taste is no exception to this.
Our senses naturally change as we age, and taste is no exception to this. Reduced taste perception can affect more than just your sheer enjoyment of food. It can also have a meaningful impact on your oral health.
Why Do Our Taste Buds Change With Age?
Our taste buds naturally start declining in number and sensitivity as we get older. Medications, chronic illnesses, and reduced saliva flow can all work together to dull our taste. Some of the more common changes you might begin noticing include:
- Increased sugar or salt intake: To better compensate for those more muted flavors you are experiencing, you might want to add more sugar or salt. This can increase your risk of cavities and gum disease.
- Reduced fruit and veggie consumption: Acidic and fibrous foods help clean our teeth naturally and stimulate saliva. If we skip these, plaque will start building up more, and there might be increased gum inflammation.
- Dehydration and dry mouth: You might start drinking less water, and certain medications can worsen your dry mouth. This leaves your teeth more vulnerable to decay and sensitivity.
All of these factors combine and can easily begin accelerating your oral health challenges.
Tips for Supporting Your Oral Health Despite Taste Changes
So, what can you do with your newly less sensitive taste buds? Here are a few ways to help maintain your healthy smile:
- Focus on nutrition: Reach for those flavorful herbs and spices and low-sugar seasonings instead of relying too heavily on sugars and salts.
- Stay hydrated: If you aren’t drinking enough water, at least try chewing on some sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva.
- Maintain oral hygiene: Make sure you brush twice a day, floss, and use an antimicrobial mouthwash to prevent plaque buildup.
- Keep regular dental checkups: See your Logan dentist regularly for early detection of cavities, gum disease, or dry mouth issues.
A Tasty Conclusion
Changes in taste are a natural part of aging, unfortunately, but they don’t have to compromise your oral health. Be mindful of your diet, stay hydrated, and keep up with your dental care, so you can protect your teeth and gums while still eating those flavorful meals you’ve always enjoyed.
