New Teeth, New Taste: Dental Implants and Their Effect on Flavor Perception
By: Kiara Hallinan
Temporary loss of taste in response to restorative dental procedures is a common occurrence that can often be attributed to use of dental anesthetic or trauma to the tissue responsible for transmitting sensory signals. But those looking for more advanced dental care are often unaware of the risks involved when replacing teeth becomes necessary, specifically those related to their ability to taste properly.
The first instances of dental implants can be traced back to the Ancient Egyptians, when it was commonplace to replace teeth with skillfully smooth seashells pushed into the gums to mimic the function and feel of natural teeth. Modern day dental implants emerged in 1965, with the use of a titanium “root” anchoring a prosthetic tooth in a patients’ jaw in order to promote a more natural and comfortable bite and smile for those that were candidates. It took 20 years to gather the research for the concept to take off.
The discovery of titanium’s ability to bond with living bone tissue allowed for long term success of implants that had previously been unthinkable, and the same material was also used later for total knee and hip replacements. With this metal being used as a faux root following extraction of natural teeth, prosthetic replacements of one or more teeth could be secured with comfort and longevity in mind. By 2002, dental implants were regarded as the preferred method of replacement for patients and dentists alike by the ADA. By 2026, it is estimated that dental implant prevalence could jump by 23%, despite the fact that adults lose less teeth today due to increased oral hygiene education and decreased smoking.
Increased use of dental implants has coincided with an influx of patients noticing altered taste perceptions. Some of this can be attributed to the temporary taste loss occasionally associated with dental anesthetic and general tissue trauma that occurs with standard dental work. These factors can be exacerbated by metal sensitivity, which can cause patients to have a persistent metallic taste. Xerostomia, or dry mouth, can be brought on by implant surgery, and is only worsened by medications like opioids and gabapentin. People who struggle with these symptoms can often gain relief by increasing hydration and avoiding tobacco. Patients may also consider making changes to their diet to include foods that are well seasoned and easy to swallow in order to prevent unpleasant tastes along with additional damage to the gingival tissue.
People who are considering implants should take into account both the risks of tooth loss (including poor diet, lack of self esteem, and difficulty speaking) and the risks of dental implants when it comes to making this decision. Quality of life is determined on an individual basis, and it is essential for both dental professionals and their patients to consider all options before making such decisions. Taste loss should be made as much of a priority as other potential side effects on consent forms given to patients before procedures, such as infection and facial paralysis. Instructions following a procedure of this nature should make the goal of healing clear to patients.
