Modern dentures are an amazing way to restore a smile after extensive tooth loss because they are incredibly lifelike and so comfortable that patients often forget that they’re there. While they look the part and restore a good deal of chewing ability, they do not provide all of the chewing and biting force that comes with natural teeth. Here’s a list of foods to be careful about if you have dentures.
Steak and Chewy Meats
Steak and many other meats can be quite fibrous and chewy, which makes them difficult for dentures to bite off and chew thoroughly. The problem is even worse for meats that are eaten off the bone like ribs, wings, and drumsticks, as they can have difficulty ripping the meat away from the bone or even chip or crack if they bite into it. A stray bit of bone that finds its way into a bite of meat can also damage the dentures if the patient accidentally bites into it. Be sure to cut meat into small, easily chewable pieces and chew them carefully.
Nuts, Seeds, and Popcorn
Dentures can have a hard time chewing on small, hard pieces, and nuts, seeds, and popcorn are notoriously difficult customers. While they can cause damage to the artificial teeth during chewing, they can also get stuck between the denture and the gums wearing it where they can lead to irritation and infection. This also applies to the seeds that can be found in bread, biscuits, or crackers.
Hard Fruits and Vegetables.
Dentures can have difficulty with snappy, fibrous fruits and veggies like apples, celery, and carrots. You can try cooked, mashed, or pureed versions of these as alternatives. Smoothies can be an excellent source of plant-based nutrients. You may also try cutting these items into smaller pieces that can be easily chewed.
The Internet abounds with denture-friendly recipes that can allow denture patients to enjoy a wide variety of delicious foods. While dentures do require maintenance and precautions in order to stay in great shape, they can serve you for ten years or more if they are well-cared for.
About the Author
Dr. Deidra Harrison-McClain earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery through Meharry Medical College in Nashville, TN, where she graduated at the top of her class. She is a member of the American Dental Association, the Tennessee Dental Association, and the Academy of General Dentistry. Her office in Goodlettsville, TN offers general, cosmetic, restorative, and emergency dentistry in addition to denture treatments. For more information on proper denture care, contact the office online or dial (615) 819-1644.