5 Tips to Enjoy Your Favorite Foods with Dentures

You probably didn’t think about your teeth very often until you lost one. You quickly learned they are important for more than just a beautiful smile. With each missing tooth, your self-esteem, quality of life, and oral health declined. You likely had to cut many foods from your diet because they were too difficult to chew. Thankfully, the struggles of tooth loss are about to be a distant memory because you’ve invested in dentures. Although you’re excited to savor a juicy steak again, there’s going to be an adjustment period. Don’t worry, here are 5 tips to make eating with dentures become second nature in no time.

1. Take It Slow

Although you can’t wait to enjoy your favorite foods again, take things slowly at first. Modern dentures closely feel like real teeth, but they will take time to get used to. You’ll want to bite and chew carefully to avoid biting your cheeks, tongue, or lips. It will also give your gums time to adjust to the pressure of eating. Pay attention to your movements when chewing, and distribute food evenly on both sides of your mouth.

2. Choose Softer Foods

Your gums, facial muscles, and jaw will have to adapt to chewing with dentures, which can lead to temporary soreness. Eating softer foods for a few days can lessen the likeliness of discomfort, like mashed potatoes, yogurt, or oatmeal.

3. Cut Foods into Small Pieces

Cutting your food into small pieces will make it easier to chew, especially when eating tough meats, like steak. You’ll help avoid gum irritation while also putting less strain on your dentures to lengthen their lifespan.

4. Skip Hard, Sticky, and Chewy Foods

You can eat just about anything with your new set of teeth; however, your denture dentist will recommend avoiding anything hard, sticky, or chewy. Not only can they dislodge your denture while eating, but they can also damage your new smile. If you can’t skip Taco Tuesday or a steak dinner, have them in moderation.

5. Consider an Adhesive

A well-fitting pair of dentures will only require saliva and suction to stay in place. However, if you need extra stability temporarily, consider using a denture adhesive. It can also help seal out food particles from getting trapped under your denture. If you require an adhesive to stop your dentures from slipping, they may need to be relined or adjusted. Contact your dentist if it’s an ongoing problem.

Dentures will restore your smile and outlook on life. After just a few days, you can eat, speak, and laugh freely without worrying about your missing teeth.

About Dr. Alexandra Galante

Dr. Galante earned her dental degree from the Tufts University School of Dental Medicine before continuing her training in general dentistry. She is a member of the American Dental Association and the Connecticut Dental Association, providing high-quality dentistry to the Waterbury community. If you’re ready to replace your missing teeth, contact our office today to schedule your denture consultation.