Dentures are remarkable dental restorations that can replace many or all of a patient’s teeth with beautiful and lifelike prosthetic devices. One of the most amazing features of these incredible appliances is that they can restore a considerable amount of the patient’s original chewing ability, allowing them to enjoy many items that may have been inedible after tooth loss. Here’s a brief guide to adjusting to wearing your new dentures so you can get used to eating with them more quickly.
What Can I Eat Immediately After Receiving Dentures?
Your gums may need time to get used to wearing your new set of dentures, so some soreness and irritation is to be expected when you first receive them. At this point, it’s best to stick to soft and mild foods that won’t be stressful to chew such as:
- Potatoes
- Hot cereal
- Soup
- Stew
- Steamed veggies
- Soft boneless chicken or fish
- Yogurt
- Ice Cream
- Smoothies
- Bananas
- Avocados
It’s best to avoid especially hot or cold foods if they are causing discomfort.
How Should I Eat When I Wear Dentures?
You can begin eating more robust fare as you feel comfortable doing so. It can be difficult to exert maximum pressure when chewing with dentures, so it’s usually best to cut tougher or crunchier foods into smaller pieces that are easier to chew. Many patients find that using a larger amount of sauce or gravy can make harder foods less difficult to eat. A well-fitting pair of dentures should hold itself in place through natural suction, but a patient wearing an older set may benefit from using oral adhesives to help their appliances fit securely.
How Can I Achieve Superior Chewing Power?
Many people become frustrated with the limited chewing power of traditional dentures, and some of them find that upgrading to dental implants allows them to achieve the biting and grinding force they need to enjoy food properly. Implant dentures are supported by titanium posts anchored securely in the jawbone, allowing them to function just like real teeth and last for decades with proper care. These devices also stimulate the jawbone during the chewing process, which can help the patient maintain a strong appearance.
Dentures can be a great way to expand your diet and restore your confidence in your appearance. Consulting with your dentist can help you find the best device to replace your lost teeth.
About the Author
Dr. Gus Bal earned his dental degree at Boston University’s Goldman School of Dental Medicine and completed an Implant Dentistry fellowship at New York University. He has been voted ‘Best Dentist in Scarborough’ by the Readers Choice Awards several years in a row, most recently in 2017. His office in Nepean offers general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as denture services. If you’d like to replace your missing teeth, contact his office on the web or dial 613-727-0990.