When it comes to replacing missing teeth, dentures are one of the most popular solutions that patients turn to—and thanks to modern advancements, this treatment solution is now more effective and lifelike than ever! That said, many patients do encounter a learning curve when it’s time to eat with dentures. Keep reading to learn about five helpful tips you can follow to give yourself an easier time whenever you sit down to eat while wearing your dentures.
1. Start with Soft Foods
If you’ve just started wearing your dentures, you’re probably excited to get back to enjoying all your favorite foods. However, you should start with a strictly soft-food diet, to give yourself time to acclimate to them. This also reduces the risk of you injuring yourself or damaging your dentures. Consider foods like applesauce, scrambled eggs, mashed potatoes, yogurt, pudding, smoothies and more. Avoid sticky foods, though—these can potentially damage or dislodge your dentures!
2. Avoid Spicy Ingredients
Your gums will likely feel a little sensitive after you begin wearing your dentures, which is another reason to be mindful of what you eat. This shouldn’t last for very long, but in the meantime, you should avoid foods with spicy ingredients that could further instigate your sore gums, including hot sauce, red pepper flakes, and other spices.
3. Check the Temperature
Your dentures have an insulating effect on your mouth, meaning you won’t be able to gauge temperature quite as accurately while you’re wearing them. Because of this, show care and test the temperatures of hot foods before you eat them. High temperatures won’t just burn your mouth, but they can also affect the suction and stability of your dentures.
4. Chew Carefully
Some people tend to favor only one side of their mouth when they’re chewing, but you should try to chew on both sides of your mouth after receiving your dentures. This will allow an even distribution of pressure across your dentures, ensuring they function properly and stay in place without causing you any discomfort.
5. Have Patience
You won’t be an expert right off the bat; it will take some time to fully adjust to your dentures, so having patience is important. It could take several days or even weeks of practice to become fully comfortable eating with your dentures. If the progress feels slow, don’t attempt to rush or exceed your pace.
Your dentures can do a lot for your smile and your lifestyle; but sometimes, getting used to eating with them can be a little frustrating! Following these five tips can ensure that you adjust smoothly and are back to enjoying your favorite foods in no time at all.
About the Author
A Texas native himself, Dr. Mark E. Lawton proudly serves patients and families in the Houston area! Dr. Lawton received his dental doctorate from the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio and is a member of many professional organizations including the Academy of General Dentistry, the American Dental Association, and the Texas Dental Association. His practice is pleased to offer many available services, including restorative dentistry options like dentures! To schedule an appointment, feel free to contact Dr. Lawton through his website or by phone: (281) 447-2186.