Traditional dentures have numerous advantages. They are attractive, cost-effective, and easy to care for. However, they have some downsides as well. For example, their strength and chewing power do not measure up to that of natural teeth. Therefore, they may require you to make some significant adjustments to your eating habits. If you have dentures, what foods should you avoid? This blog post provides some actionable information.
Sticky Foods
Do you enjoy sweet treats? If so, you might be attracted to sticky things like taffy and caramels. Sadly, those items can cling to your prosthetic teeth and be difficult to remove. They could even pull your dentures right off of your gums!
The same thing can be said of chewing gum. However, there are some varieties of gum that are designed specifically for use with dentures. Those should be fine to use.
Food with Small, Hard Parts
Some foods have small, hard parts that could sneak beneath your dentures and irritate your gums. That is why you should stay away from things like popcorn, nuts, and seeds. If you are in the mood for a nutritious snack, you could opt for berries or pitted olives instead.
Raw Vegetables and Some Fruits
Raw vegetables are a great source of many nutrients, but they can be quite hard and challenging to eat for denture wearers, especially if you are new to your prosthetic. It would be best if you only eat vegetables that have been cooked to the point where they are soft and easy to eat.
Similarly, some fruits, such as apples, have a firm texture and can be challenging to consume. Enjoy them in cooked form or wait to eat them until you are well-adapted to using your dentures.
Tough and Chewy Meats
Some cuts of meat can be exhausting to consume if you have dentures. It is best to favor softer options, like fish, poultry, and slow-cooked meats. If you do eat something that is on the tougher side, be sure to cut it into small pieces before placing it in your mouth.
Highly Pigmented Beverages
Tea, coffee, and fruit juices can be both delicious and beneficial for health. Unfortunately, they often contain dark pigments that could discolor your dentures if you consume them too often. Be sure to enjoy them only in moderation. You should also sip them through a straw so the liquid has minimal contact with your teeth.
What if You Want More Food Freedom?
Dentures are wonderful, but they do come with some challenging dietary restrictions. If you would like to be able to eat virtually anything, ask your dentist if you could get implant dentures instead. Since they are anchored in the jawbone, they provide a mighty bite force that can equip you to eat virtually any food with ease.
Traditional dentures require you to modify your diet. The above guidance can help to keep your prosthetic in great shape.
Meet the Practice
New Haven Dental Group has been serving patients in our area for decades. We proudly provide traditional dentures, implant dentures, and denture maintenance services. If you have questions about what to expect with any form of tooth replacement, we would love to speak with you. Contact our Hamden office at 203-587-7327.