Nothing is more exciting than getting your dentures. You no longer have to deal with insecurities about your appearance or struggle to chew food. Your dentures will fit like gloves for maximum comfort and function. However, don’t expect to chomp into a hamburger right away. It will take time to get used to eating with your dentures. Here are a few tips to make that transition process easier.
Eat Soft Foods
It’s best to eat soft foods that require minimal chewing for the first 1-2 weeks. Your oral muscles will need to get accustomed to chewing with dentures. As they say, practice makes perfect. As you get used to eating with your new teeth, you can introduce more foods.
Temperature Check Hot Foods
Your dentures can insulate your gums and the roof of your mouth. Accidental burns are possible if you aren’t careful. Always temperature-check hot foods and drinks.
Chew Slowly and Evenly
Many people move their food around in their mouth from one side to the other when chewing. However, this isn’t something you want to do with dentures. Chewing on one side can dislodge your dentures. Chew your food evenly on both sides of your mouth.
Introduce Slow-Cooked Foods
After the first week or two, you can begin introducing slow-cooked foods that are easy to chew. Cut them into small pieces and chew slowly and carefully.
Moderate Hard or Chewy Foods
It’s entirely possible to eat tacos or steak with dentures, but it’s not something you should do often. Your dentures will experience wear and tear, just like your teeth. Hard and chewy foods can increase wear and tear. They can also lead to sore gums and jaw pain if you eat them often.
Avoid Sticky Foods
Sticky foods can cling to your dentures and cause them to lose suction. They are notorious for causing dentures to dislodge or even fall out. Not to mention, sticky foods are very difficult to remove from your dentures, which can damage them over time. It’s best to just skip them all together.
Although it may take a couple of weeks to get used to eating with your new teeth, in no time at all, you may soon forget your dentures aren’t natural. You can enjoy a variety of nutritious foods to keep your mouth and body healthy.
About Dr. Shane Smith
Dr. Smith earned his dental degree at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center and has continued his education in various specialties, including dental implants, dentures, and cosmetic dentistry. He strives to provide the most up-to-date services to create healthy, beautiful smiles. Request an appointment through his website or call our office at (870) 686-4025.