Dentures offer a reliable and cost-effective form of tooth replacement. However, they are not as strong as natural teeth. Therefore, you will need to make some adjustments to your diet in order to protect your prosthetic and your gums. What foods should you avoid if you have dentures? This blog post provides some help information.
Sticky Foods
If you have a sweet tooth, you might gravitate toward sticky treats like taffy and caramels. Unfortunately, those items can get stuck on your dentures, and they are even more difficult to clean off of prosthetic teeth than they are to get off of natural dentition. Plus, they might pull your dentures off of your gums. Opt for softer alternatives that are quick and easy to chew.
Food with Small, Hard Bits
Small, hard bits of food may sneak beneath your dentures and get stuck, causing irritation to your gums. Try to avoid items like include, popcorn, nuts, and seeds. Pitted olives and berries are nutritious snacks that are safer to eat for denture wearers.
Raw Vegetables
Raw vegetables are incredibly nutritious, but unfortunately, they tend to be hard and challenging to chew. Particularly if you are new to dentures, you may want to ensure that your veggies are cooked to the point where they are soft enough to chew without problems. The same thing can be said of applies and other firm fruits.
Tough and Chewy Meats
Tough and chewy meats can be exhausting to chew if you have dentures. Try to gravitate toward softer choices, like slow-cooked meats, fish, and poultry. If you do try to tackle something that is a little tougher, be sure to cut it into small pieces before putting it in your mouth.
Highly Pigmented Beverages
Coffee, tea, and juice are all delicious. Unfortunately, they contain pigments that could stain your dentures. Try to moderate your intake of such items. Drinking them through a straw can minimize their contact with your prosthetic teeth. You should also be sure to rinse your dentures after you enjoy anything with a lot of pigment in it.
What if You Want More Food Freedom?
Dentures can enable you to eat many foods, but as this article has shown, they also come with a number of restrictions. If you would like the ability to eat virtually anything, talk to your dentist about implant dentures. They are anchored in the jawbone with the help of prosthetic tooth roots. Therefore, they are strong enough to stand up to a wider variety of foods.
Dentures require you to make some adjustments to your diet. Follow the above guidance to reduce the risk of problems with your prosthetic teeth.
Meet the Practice
Willow Run Dental Association proudly provides a wide range of services to the Auburn community. We are able to offer both conventional and implant dentures. If you have questions about your tooth replacement options, we are ready to speak with you. Contact our office at 207-352-2825.