Dentures are a proven solution for tooth loss, as they can simultaneously restore your appearance while enhancing the functionality of your mouth. Whether you’ve lost several adult teeth or need to replace an entire arch, your dentist can provide a customized prosthetic made to look and feel as lifelike as possible.
Additionally, with your new teeth in place, you can enjoy a variety of wholesome foods that support both your oral and overall health. However, there are a few common culprits known to harm dentures that you should avoid. Continue reading to learn about 3 things you shouldn’t eat with your restoration!
Food #1: Chewy Meats
Did you know that tooth loss can impact your nutrition? Gaps in your grin make it much harder to thoroughly chew food enough to be easily swallowed and digested. As a result, some patients develop gastrointestinal issues from swallowing overly large pieces that can’t be sufficiently broken down and absorbed.
Once you receive your dentures, you might feel eager to immediately sink your teeth into something juicy and delicious, like a thick steak. Unfortunately, chewy meats can be challenging to mash up until you’ve fully acclimated to your new teeth. You might stick with easier-to-eat options like fish or chicken. You can also try cutting your meat into smaller pieces that are easier to chew.
Food #2: Raw Fruits & Veggies
Another health concern that can accompany tooth loss is malnutrition. Many essential nutrients, such as vitamins and minerals, can only be found in specific fruits and vegetables. However, it’s challenging to bite into raw carrots, apples, or other produce with dentures because you might push or yank them out of place.
Thankfully, you can continue to enjoy healthy meals to give your body all the ingredients it needs to function at its peak, but you might want to cook or blend them first. For instance, you can steam broccoli, spinach, and potatoes to soften them, or puree fruits into a smoothie.
Food #3: Hard Snacks
If you’re a fan of sunflower seeds, pistachios, or popcorn, you might want to find different foods to munch on in between meals if you’ve just been fitted with dentures. Small, hard nuts and seeds can wedge themselves between your gums and your prosthetic, which can cause inflammation and irritation that triggers the development of gum disease. Instead, why not grab a handful of pitted olives or berries that won’t harm your smile?
By making a few slight adjustments to your daily menu, you can maintain your new dentures for years to come!
About the Practice
At Hanover Road Dental Health, people of all ages benefit from a team of dentists who share decades of combined experience. They collaborate to provide a comprehensive range of services, so whether you need basic preventive care or to replace missing teeth, they can help. They take the time to learn your unique concerns and goals, then tailor treatment plans to meet them. Then, they utilize state-of-the-art technology for accurate, long-lasting results. If you are considering dentures, you can request an appointment on the website or call (603) 643-4362.