Wearing dentures has many benefits, including the ability to speak clearly and confidently, smile without fear, and eat flavorful and nutritious foods. However, their initial placement often requires an adjustment phase that includes learning how to consume food without worrying about your teeth slipping. Discover four tips to help you navigate this adjustment and eat your favorite foods in no time.
Choose Soft Foods Initially
Immediately after receiving your new dentures (or any time you receive a new set), stick to a soft food diet for a while. Not only will this allow your mouth to adjust to the new prosthesis without causing additional pressure on your gums and bones, but it also encourages you to eat more confidently.
Biting down on dense, crunchy foods can be difficult at first, as your denture can move out of place. However, by eating soft foods like yogurt, oatmeal, mashed potatoes, soup, cottage cheese, soft cheese, etc., you can still receive valuable nutrients while giving your mouth time to adjust.
Chew with Both Sides
As you begin to incorporate denser foods into your diet, chew with both sides of your teeth. This might feel awkward, but it helps keep your teeth firmly in place instead of popping up toward the back.
This step can be made easier if you cut your food into smaller pieces for easier consumption.
Steer Clear of Sticky Foods
You may be tempted to bite down on a delicious caramel treat, but sticky foods can wreak havoc on your dentures. Apart from putting your natural teeth and gums at risk of dental decay, the texture can cause your dentures to come out.
Although you can incorporate denture adhesive into your daily routine, aspects of using these products can alter the taste of your food, so you’ll need to be mindful of how much you use.
Make Sure to Drink While Eating
Keeping your mouth moist and hydrated while you eat can make the process easier if you wear dentures. Not only does the consumption of water or another beverage help soften your food so that it’s easier to bite down and chew, but it also keeps these particles from attaching to your dentures and any remaining natural teeth.
Eating with dentures may take a little bit of time to get used to, but if you follow these tips and ask your dentist about additional ways to adjust to the newness of your smile, you’ll be enjoying meals with family and friends before you know it.
About Grand Dental – Aurora
At Grand Dental – Aurora, our team of expert dentists is here to make living with dentures an easier and more enjoyable experience. Apart from talking and smiling, the ability to eat comfortably is essential, and it’s why we provide tips to make it easier for individuals to navigate this phase so that they do not have to avoid their favorite foods. Instead, patients can maintain a nutritious diet by making a few adjustments. If you need help learning how to properly eat while wearing dentures, visit our website or call (630) 538-8302.