Dentures & Diets: Foods to Skip and Smile-Friendly Favorites

There are millions of people who have dentures as a solution for missing teeth. They are tried-and-true, helping those regain their confidence and bite. However, if you are wearing them for the first time, it takes a few weeks to get used to them. You might have minor soreness, but adjusting your meals can make this process easier. Here are some foods you should avoid and some prosthetic-friendly options.

Which Foods Should I Steer Clear Of?

While you are learning how to bite and chew with your dentures, you may notice that your gums are a bit sensitive. Don’t worry, as this discomfort is only temporary, but you should take these foods off your menu:

• Tough meats require you to gnaw on them for a bit longer than tender cuts. You may accidentally experience some slippage when having them.
• Some raw vegetables and fruits, such as carrots or apples, need more bite force to get through, which can cause some damage if you aren’t careful.
• Nuts, popcorn, seeds, and other hard items can get trapped between your gums and denture, which can lead to discomfort and irritation.
• Sticky candies, like caramel and taffy, can pull your prosthetic out of place.

What Should I Stock My Pantry With?

If you are used to eating the foods above, then avoiding them may be easier said than done. Thankfully, there are some tips you can follow to make them a bit safer to consume. For instance, you can boil your vegetables or create fruit smoothies. Also, cutting tough items into bite-sized pieces might be helpful.

However, there is still the whole culinary world to explore! You can enjoy pasta, rice, ground meat, and soups (to name a few)! There are many more foods and just as many more ways to prepare them with different spices to keep mealtime an exciting adventure. If you have a bit of a sweet tooth, then pudding, custard, and ice cream are some great options you can have.

Is There a Way to Expand My Options?

Although you can still enjoy a varied diet with dentures, you may miss being able to chew into certain foods. A way that you can get a stronger bite is with the help of dental implants. These are posts that are placed and fused with your jawbone, allowing for more stability. Once your prosthetic is attached to them, you won’t have to worry about any slippage, letting you dive into meals that you might’ve missed.

In the end, dentures are still a great option for your missing teeth. Remember to avoid these foods above to help keep your new smile pristine for longer.

About the Author

Dr. DawnMarie DiGrazia earned her dental degree from the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey. She is here to help the Somerville community rebuild their grins with dentures. By using high-quality materials, you can trust your pair will look natural while feeling great. If you need some help adjusting to your prosthetic, schedule an appointment or call her office at (908) 722-2999.