Eating with Dentures Takes Some Practice

When you get dentures, you do need to adjust yourself to eating with your new teeth. Do not worry, though, as you will soon get used to it.

Getting into Practice

When you had regular teeth or perhaps spaces between teeth, you probably got used to eating on one side of the mouth or the other. However, when you have dentures, that all changes. You can now eat evenly on each side of the mouth. Therefore, you should take this approach when you adjust to eating with your new teeth. You also want to take smaller bites. Make sure you thoroughly chew what you eat. Do not rush through your meal. Take your time.

Don’t Eat Anything Too Hot

Check the temperature of the foods you eat. Dentures are insulated. Therefore, you will not be able to tell the temperatures of foods as well. Test foods on your lips slightly before placing them in your mouth, so you do not burn your tongue. Also, avoid eating spicy or hot foods, as they can cause stinging or irritation, especially if you have gum sores.

Begin with a Soft Diet and Be Careful How You Drink Beverages

Begin eating foods that are naturally soft, such as puddings, applesauce, scrambled eggs, cooked oatmeal, and mashed potatoes. Eating these foods allow you to meet your nutritional needs without stressing your jaw muscles or gums. Do not allow liquids to sit in the mouth. Doing so can loosen the bottom dentures. Avoid eating certain foods, such as grainy breads or processed foods, that stick to the teeth. If you do eat them, drink water to keep your teeth clean. It also helps to avoid eating hard-to-chew meats or gummy or sticky foods that can dislodge your dentures.

You can make the adjustment to eating with dentures. You just need to find out how to make the process comfortable for you. By eating slowly and eating chewable or softer foods, you will not find eating all that difficult. Give us a call anytime to schedule an appointment if you have a denture-related concern.