Eating with Dentures

Missing teeth may cause eating to be more difficult, but a new set of properly fitting dentures can help. Our dentists help patients in Lake Jackson, TX, adapt to eating with dentures.

As facial muscles acclimate to a new bite, it's essential to start with certain types of foods that are easy to chew. Patients can broaden their food choices again after becoming fully adjusted to their dentures. Here are five diet changes that can help denture patients adjust to their new bite.

Start with Soft Foods

A general guideline to follow with new dentures is to focus on eating softer types of food. Eating coarser, crunchier, and harder foods too soon can increase the risk of irritation and inflammation.

During the first two weeks after getting new dentures, keep your diet limited to liquids and softer foods, including:

• Mashed potatoes
• Steamed vegetables
• Soft cheeses (like cream cheese or chevre)
• Yogurt
• Soups, bisques, and broths
• Applesauce
• Reintroduce spongy, solid foods after two weeks, such as:
• Baked potatoes
• Softer meats (like fish)
• Rice
• Al-dente (or even mushier) pasta

Take Smaller, Slower Bites

Once our Lake Jackson, TX, patients are more comfortable with dentures, it's time to transition to solids. Slicing foods into bite-size pieces will make them easier to chew. Always chew slowly and carefully before swallowing.

Drink Water with Meals

Complex carbs (like whole grains and starchy vegetables) help the body feel fuller and more energized. However, they tend to stick to dentures. Quickly wash away complex carbs by taking a few sips of water with every bite of food.

It's important to note that holding liquids in the mouth for too long can loosen some types of bottom dentures.

Chew on Both Sides

To ensure denture stability, distribute food evenly and bilaterally while chewing. Chewing on both sides of your mouth can also reduce the risk of discomfort occurring in the jaw joints.

Food Precautions

A benefit of dentures is that patients can eat most foods; however, some foods should be enjoyed with caution or avoided altogether. These foods include:

·        Spicy foods: While adjusting to dentures, people may experience sores or irritation of the gums. Zesty or fiery foods can sting raw gums, so keep it mild at first.

·        Hot foods: Dentures have an insulating effect on the mouth, so it may be challenging to distinguish temperature variances. Instead of directly putting warm foods in the mouth, check the temperature with your lips.

·        Hard-to-chew meats: The connective tissues and muscle fibers in some meats can be tough to chew. Select tender cuts or tenderize meats before cooking. Cut away sinew and gristle before or after cooking.

·        Sticky, gummy foods: These types of food, which can include caramel, chewy granola bars, and beef jerky can stick to molars and dislodge your dentures.

We Are Here to Help You

Patients who have successfully adjusted to dentures can chew most foods once they become used to the dentures and understand their capabilities and limitations. Speak with your dentist if you experience loose dentures that don't fit properly so adjustments can be made. To avoid the risk of choking with poorly fitting dentures, eat only liquids and softer foods until you can see your dentist.

If you have questions about eating with dentures or need to consult with a denture expert, please call (979) 297-1201 or message us online at Bell Dental in Lake Jackson, TX.