What cannot be eaten with dentures?
Dentures are a popular solution for those who have lost teeth due to aging, disease, or injury. Dentures are custom-made appliances made to fit comfortably in the mouth and improve both the function and appearance of your smile and bite. Remember your dentures are substitutes for teeth that were set solidly in your jawbone; dentures merely rest against the gums, therefore, they come with certain dietary restrictions. Knowing what cannot be eaten with dentures is essential to prevent discomfort, damage, or embarrassment.
In this blog post, we will discuss what foods and drinks should be avoided when wearing dentures and some tips for maintaining good oral health.
Foods to Avoid with Dentures
1. Sticky or Chewy Foods
Sticky or chewy foods can be a challenge for denture wearers as they can easily dislodge the dentures or cause them to move out of place. Examples of sticky or chewy foods include caramel, taffy, gum, marshmallow treats, peanut butter, raisins, and gummy bears.
2. Hard Foods
Hard foods can also be problematic for denture wearers, as they can cause dentures to crack or break. Avoid biting into hard foods such as nuts, hard candy, popcorn, and ice.
3. Tough Meats
Meats that are tough meats can be difficult to chew and may cause discomfort or pain for denture wearers. Instead of consuming tough meats such as steak or pork chops, consider choosing softer options like chicken, fish, eggs, stewed or slow-cooked meats. If you feel like you have to have that steak, we recommend cutting it up into tiny pieces.
4. Foods that Require Biting with Front Teeth
Biting with your front teeth can dislodge the dentures or break the teeth. It is best to avoid foods that require a lot of front-tooth biting. Examples include corn on the cob, apples, and carrots.
5. Spicy or Acidic Foods
Spicy or acidic foods can cause irritation or inflammation of the gums, tongue, and other soft tissues in the mouth. Examples include salsa, citrus fruits, and tomatoes. If you choose to consume these foods, be sure to rinse your mouth with water afterward to reduce the risk of irritation.
Drinks to Avoid with Dentures
1. Hot Foods/Beverages
Hot foods/beverages can cause discomfort with dentures or even burn the soft tissues in your mouth. You won’t be able to judge temperatures as well due to the insulating effect of the denture in your mouth. Test hot foods/beverages on your lips before putting them in your mouth but it is best to wait until they cool down before consuming them.
2. Carbonated Beverages
Carbonated beverages can cause denture discomfort by creating gas bubbles that cause the dentures to lose their suction in your mouth. Choose still water or sugar-free non-carbonated drinks instead.
3. Alcoholic Beverages
Alcoholic beverages can cause dry mouth and dehydration, leading to discomfort for denture wearers. Additionally, alcohol can interfere with the fit and function of the dentures. If you choose to consume alcohol, be sure to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
Tips for Maintaining Good Oral Health with Dentures
1. Clean your dentures daily with a soft-bristled brush and mild soap or denture cleaner.
2. Soak your dentures in a denture cleaning solution overnight to remove bacteria and stains.
3. Rinse your dentures thoroughly before putting them back in your mouth to avoid irritation or discomfort.
4. Brush your gums, tongue, and the roof of your mouth with a soft-bristled brush to remove bacteria and maintain good oral health.
5. Visit your denturist regularly for check-ups and adjustments, to ensure the fit and function of your dentures.
In conclusion, knowing what cannot be eaten with dentures is essential to maintaining good oral health and preventing discomfort or damage. Avoiding sticky, chewy, and hard foods, tough meats or foods that require biting with the front teeth can help denture wears avoid discomfort and embarrassment. Additionally, avoiding hot beverages, carbonated beverages, spicy or acidic foods and alcoholic beverages can also help prevent denture discomfort. By following these tips and maintaining good oral hygiene practices, denture wearers can ensure their dentures remain in good condition and their mouths stay healthy. Remember to clean your dentures daily, soak them in a cleaning solution overnight, and brush your gums, tongue, and roof of your mouth regularly.
It’s also important to schedule regular dental check-ups with your denturist to ensure the fit and function of your dentures are optimal. Your denturist can also make adjustments to your dentures as needed and provide advice on how to care for them properly. If you have any questions or concerns about your dentures or oral health, be sure to consult our team at Love My Smile Center for personalized advice. Call us today at 833-900-1050 to schedule a consultation!