Wearing dentures can help restore your ability to eat, speak, and smile with confidence. However, adjusting to life with dentures does come with a learning curve, especially when it comes to your diet. While dentures are designed to be durable and functional, they’re not as strong or flexible as natural teeth, which means certain foods can be tough on them. To keep your dentures and your mouth in good shape, it’s important to avoid foods that can damage them, dislodge them, or cause discomfort. Here are 5 you’ll want to stay away from.
1. Sticky Foods
Sticky foods are one of the biggest troublemakers for denture wearers. Items like chewing gum, caramels, taffy, and gummy candies can cling to dentures and pull them out of place. This not only makes eating difficult but can also loosen the adhesive and increase the risk of sore spots or irritation. If you have a sweet tooth, opt for soft chocolate or sugar-free pudding instead.
2. Hard Foods
Hard foods can crack or damage dentures, especially if you bite down suddenly or with too much force. Be cautious with nuts, hard candies, popcorn kernels, ice cubes, and raw vegetables. Not only can these foods damage your dentures, but they can also put pressure on your gums, leading to discomfort. Steam or cook vegetables until they’re soft, and cut hard fruits into small, manageable pieces.
3. Tough or Chewy Meats
Tough cuts of meat like steak, jerky, or ribs require a lot of chewing and can be challenging with dentures. These foods may cause your dentures to shift or create sore spots in your mouth. Choose tender meats like slow-cooked chicken, ground turkey, or fish. Using a slow cooker can make many meats easier to chew.
4. Seeds and Small Grains
Small bits like seeds, popcorn husks, sesame seeds, or chia seeds can easily get stuck under your dentures. Once trapped, they can cause irritation, inflammation, or even infection if not cleaned out promptly. Avoid seeded bread and opt for smooth nut butters instead of those with chunks or seeds.
5. Foods That Require Biting with Front Teeth
Biting directly into foods like corn on the cob, apples, or crusty bread can put too much pressure on the front of your dentures, increasing the risk of slippage or breakage. Cut these foods into bite-sized pieces and chew with your back teeth to avoid stressing the front denture area.
Having dentures doesn’t mean giving up all your favorite foods – it just means making smart choices to protect your smile and comfort. Avoiding sticky, hard, and overly chewy foods can extend the life of your dentures and reduce the risk of irritation. As you adjust, you’ll find that there are still plenty of tasty, denture-friendly options that allow you to enjoy eating again with confidence.
About the Author
Dr. Asra Javeed is a graduate of the Boston University School of Dental Medicine, where she was an award-winning student noted for her expertise in oral pathology. She stays current with the latest technology in the field like digital imaging, 3-D scanning, and intraoral cameras, which all allow her to explain in detail all treatment options so patients can make an informed decision. Dr. Javeed can also provide a denture if you’re interested in artificial tooth replacement. To find out what best suits you, schedule an appointment online or call us at (757) 498-6420.