Dentures offer a cost-effective and aesthetically pleasing way to replace missing teeth. However, they do not provide the same bite strength as natural dentition. In order to protect both your oral health and your prosthetic, you might need to make some dietary modifications. What foods should you avoid with dentures? This blog lists a few.
Popcorn
Popcorn is a popular movie time snack, but unfortunately, it is not ideal for denture wearers. The small husks could get stuck beneath your prosthetic and cause discomfort, and unpopped kernels might damage your prosthetic teeth.
Steak
Oftentimes, steak is a bit on the chewy side. That can make it challenging to eat if you have dentures, particularly if you are still adapting to your new teeth. It is generally best to avoid tough and chewy meats (as well as bone-in meats) until after you feel comfortable eating with dentures. In the meantime, stick to softer choices, such as ground meats and fish.
Nuts
Nuts are a nutritious and tasty snack, but they tend to be quite hard. Therefore, they can cause discomfort for new denture wearers. Plus, if you are not careful to distribute nuts on both sides of your mouth, you could end up destabilizing your prosthetic.
Highly Pigmented Beverages
Dentures do not easily incur stains, but they can become discolored over time. Therefore, you should limit or avoid beverages like coffee, tea, and red wine. It is also worth noting that many pigmented beverages can contribute to dry mouth, which can cause discomfort for denture wearers.
Sticky Candy
Whether you enjoy chewing gum, caramels, or saltwater taffy, the reality is that such items are not good for dentures. They could stick to your prosthetic teeth and be difficult to clean off. When you need a sweet treat, try to opt for denture-friendly options. For example, you might enjoy a milkshake or a soft piece of pie. Chocolate that does not have nuts or chewy dried fruits in it is also a good option.
Enjoying Your Favorite Foods with Dentures
The above recommendations are not meant to be viewed as hard and fast rules. Many people find that after they get used to eating with their dentures, they can enjoy almost all of their favorite snacks and meals. However, you should not rush into consuming anything that causes discomfort.
It is also worth noting that if you want to enjoy optimum chewing power, it may be best to ask your dentist if you qualify for implant dentures. Because they are anchored in the jawbone, they can provide a chewing force that is almost equal to that of natural teeth.
Getting dentures will require you to adjust your eating habits, but the benefits of a complete smile should far outweigh any inconveniences caused by your prosthetic!
Meet the Practice
Northborough Dental Associates is home to a talented team of dental professionals, all of whom are proud to offer a comprehensive range of treatments, including traditional dentures, implant dentures, and more. If you have questions about your tooth replacement options or how to care for prosthetic teeth, our staff would be pleased to speak with you. Contact us at 508-571-0358.