If you have experienced extensive tooth loss, dentures are an ideal way to restore the appearance and function of your smile. This way, you can regain the ability to chew your food, speak clearly, and smile with confidence. However, when you first get your new dentures, it will take you some time to get used to them, and some foods are more difficult to chew than others. Here are 5 foods that you should probably avoid with your new replacement teeth.
Steak
Many people like to treat themselves to a nice steak for dinner. However, this can be very difficult for you to eat when you have dentures. Since steak requires so much chewing, combining it with new dentures can cause gum pain. This can also cause your dentures to be dislodged. When you are ready, cut your steak into very small, bite-sized pieces to make it easier for you to chew.
Sticky & Hard Candy
Do you like sugary treats? Caramel, peanut brittle, and gummies can all be delicious. However, when you wear dentures, they have the tendency to stick. It is very difficult to remove these items from dentures, so it is a good idea to avoid them. The good news is that you don’t need to give up on sweets entirely. Choose denture-friendly treats, like soft chocolates, ice cream, fruit smoothies, and puddings.
Dark-Colored Drinks
Just like natural teeth, dentures are prone to staining. These stains will come faster and be more prominent if you indulge in dark-colored foods and beverages. Some of the most common culprits include red wine, black tea, and coffee. Caffeine is also a diuretic, so it can cause dehydration and dry mouth, creating additional issues with your dentures and gums.
Nuts
Nuts have all sorts of health benefits and are a great snack to enjoy throughout the day. However, if you are new to dentures, it may be a good idea to avoid them at first. When you wear dentures, it is important that you use both sides of your mouth when you chew. This prevents the dentures from coming out. Since nuts are a hard snack and we eat them in the back of the mouth, they can be very difficult to chew as you are adjusting. Hard nuts can also damage dentures by causing chips or cracks.
Popcorn
Popcorn is a popular snack, but it can be challenging to eat when you have dentures. If a kernel becomes stuck beneath your dentures, it can cause significant irritation. As you adjust to your dentures, popcorn shouldn’t be your go-to snack.
Dentures are a life-changing tooth replacement solution, but they take some time to get used to. You should be especially careful of the foods listed above. This way, you can adjust to your new smile quickly and comfortably.
About the Practice
At CityLine Dental Center, Dr. Melody Stampe and Dr. Tamara Gater work together to treat patients in the Richardson community. With their combined experience and expertise, patients can get pretty much anything they need under one roof, including tooth replacement solutions like dentures. To learn more about dentures or to schedule a consultation, visit their website or call (972) 231-9499.