I just can’t taste food like I used to. The taste seems to either be faint or not there at all. Sometimes I don’t know that my taste is faint or gone until I start eating. It can last a few minutes to several hours. I don’t have sinus problems that I know of. One thing that I did notice though is that the problem started shortly after I got porcelain veneers. I am wondering if there is something about the porcelain in my mouth or the process of getting them that could have triggered my loss of taste. Is this a known problem with people who get porcelain veneers? If so why didn’t the dentist tell me about it first? This is something that would have made me think twice about getting veneers. Thanks. Danielle.
Danielle – Porcelain veneers are not related to loss or impaired taste. Although you started having problems with your sense of taste after you received veneers, the problem is related to other causes.
What causes loss of, or impaired, taste?
Some of the causes are listed below.
- Ear infections and upper respiratory infections
- Certain prescription medications or chemicals
- Sinus and allergy issues
- Hormonal disturbances
- Radiation therapy of the head or neck
- Trauma to your head
- Poor oral hygiene
- Genetics
- Smoking
- Age – many senior citizens experience loss of taste as they age (60+).
What should be done about impaired or lost taste?
You can get help from your medical doctor and a specialist to determine what is causing your taste to be impaired. An otolaryngologist (ENT) specializes in disorders of the ear, nose, and throat. A dentist can order tests that can help determine the cause of the issue. Your medical doctor and dentist can refer you to the right specialists to help you receive an accurate diagnosis and the right treatment. Of course, the treatment recommendations, will depend on the cause of the issue.
When you lose your taste, it can cause you to eat too much or too little. You can also use too much salt or sugar on your food, which can lead to health problems, such as high blood pressure or diabetes. Your overall health can be affected, so it’s important that you seek medical attention as soon as possible.
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